Thursday, May 22, 2008

Grief program, support group forms in Aitkin

The process of working through grief and the death of a loved one is one of the most difficult journeys individuals face in their lifetime. There’s no need for those experiencing loss to travel this road alone.

Riverwood Healthcare Center will host a program on “Understanding Grief & Loss” on Thurs., June 5, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Riverwood Healthcare Center, conference rooms A&B, in Aitkin. An excellent film, “To Touch a Grieving Heart,” will be shown with a facilitated discussion around these questions: How long should you grieve? Should you try to forget or try to remember? What is, and is not, helpful to a grieving person? Light refreshments will be served and there is no cost for the program.

In addition, Riverwood has organized an 8-week Grief Support Group, which will be held on Thursday evenings, August 7 through September 25. The group will meet from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Riverwood’s hospital conference rooms A & B at 200 Bunker Hill Drive in Aitkin.

Three local women—Judy Anakkala, Mary Ann Kult and Betty Thompson—with experience in bereavement counseling and support will act as Grief Group facilitators, presenting the weekly topics and guiding discussion.

Pre-registration for the support group is required. Each week, group facilitators will cover specific topics on healthy grieving and how to cope. Assistance may be available for transportation needs.

To register for the June 5 program, or the Grief Support group, contact Val Thompson, Riverwood Social Worker, at (218) 927-5524.