When a parent dies, you lose your past; when a child dies you lose your future. – Anonymous
Children are not supposed to die. Parents are supposed to out-live their children…watch them grow and mature, support them through the tough times, and celebrate the good times. This is the circle of life.
The death of a child is a traumatic experience. Bereaved parents are faced with a situation where they must deal with grief and learn how to continue to live, even after their world has shattered into a million pieces. This process doesn't happen over night. It’s a life long journey with no boundaries, no rules and no protocol.
Today, thousands of parents all over the world, and right here in our community, have experienced the loss a child. No man needs to walk alone. Support groups offer grieving parents a safe place where they can release the depth and breadth of their deep-rooted emotions, providing hope through their despair.
There are multiple bereavement gatherings in the Charleston area. If you are grieving the loss of a child or loved one, please reach out to one of these local support groups.
COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS supports the family after a child dies. Meets the last Tuesday of each month at 7:30 P.M., Church of the Good Shepherd, 1393 Miles Drive, Charleston, SC 29407. (843) 763-6362 - Susan.
ANGELS OF OURS is for those dealing with the loss of an infant. Meets at Trident Community Center classroom. 797-3463.
A GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP is open to anyone dealing with the loss of a loved one. Odyssey Hospice, Wednesdays, 2–3 P.M. at Trident H2U Conference Room. 797-3463.
CALEB MINISTRIES is for women who have experienced infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion or early infant death. Visit www.calebministries.org or call 884-6050.
PATHFINDERS BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP is open to anyone grieving the loss of a loved one. Presented by Palmetto Health Hospice. Meets at Moncks Corner Medical Center. 797-3463.
A GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP is for those dealing with the loss of a loved one. Meets 2–3 P.M., Wednesdays, in the Trident Health Finders H2U conference room. 797-3463.
Comments
Pattie is a Mom who has overcome the horrific challenge of losing a child. She also is an exceptional communicator, and is dedicated to bringing love and joy to others.
This column provides the inspiration to grieving souls to remold their lives with hope and determination. With practical advice blended with her heart's natural love, Pattie joins with us all as we strive to bring consolation and joy to our lives.
Pattie has an angel's touch when addressing a very difficult subject. It takes a village to raise a child; it takes a village to cope with the loss of one. It is healing to walk in the shoes of others who have experienced a similar loss. It leaves healing footprints on your heart. I look forward to the healing footprints this column will leave on those very special hearts that are grieving.
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