Grief & Bereavement

Madawaska Valley Hospice Palliative Care (MVHPC) provides bereavement support following the death of a loved one for one year as well as offer Free 6 week Grief Support Groups (frequency based on interest).  For more information about our groups or our bereavement program, contact the office (613)756-3045 Ext 350.

"Grief ...never ends...but it changes.  It is a passage, not a place to stay.  Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith...it is the price of love."

Grief

Grief is the normal, healthy response to different types of loss.  Such losses include not only the death of a loved one, but also the loss of health, loss of a special relationship, loss of a job, loss of self-esteem and the changes that invariably take place as a result.  It is the most universal of human experiences and the one for which we are least prepared.

When a loved one dies, our lives are changed forever - we are no longer the same person we were before the death and many of us need some help in navigating the painful journey after the death of a loved one.  The Grief and Bereavement Program can help with this process.

What is the purpose of the Bereavement Program?

  • To foster healthy emotional adjustment to loss
  • To provide support and education about the grieving process
  • To help individuals and families develop coping skills to deal with their loss
  • To educate the community at large about grief and bereavement

How does MVHPC provide Bereavement Follow Up?

  • Staff and trained volunteers will contact family during the first year following the death.
  • Two annual events to honour the memories of loved ones who died will be held in;
    • July - Memorial Butterfly Release
    • November - Coping with the holidays and grief
    • 6 Week Grief Support Group, offered 2-3 times a year

Pamphlets are available with helpful information about the grieving process and can be made available to anyone who requests either by email or phone or in person.

Visit www.kidsgrief.ca , www.speakinggrief.org , www.mygrief.ca 

websites for more information as a resource for all families.