Bereavement Professionals’ Insights

Katie “Ongoing Grief”

Katie talks about the loss of her mother.

Jacqueline – Humour

Jacqueline talks about how huour has a place in grieving

Grief and Disability: Carrie’s Story

It has become clear to me over time that we have much work to do to ensure the delivery of disability-sensitive grief literacy and grief support. In March of 2022 my proposal for four 1-hour sessions was approved, we provided the program for 20 participants. My heart was full in each session.

My heart remains full of hope that conversations, education, and expertise about disability sensitive end of life care and grief support will gain momentum as more and more people join in on this vital conversation.

Keith – “My story”

Keith tells his story and why he became a counsellor.

Jen – “Releasing grief through yoga”

Jen discusses how some poses can help release stress.

A Million Other Things: Grieving a Drug Poisoning Death

Sister, father, son, niece, best friend – some of these words might be how you would describe your loved one who has died of an overdose or drug poisoning. People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) are not defined by their substance use – they are a million other things to those who love and miss them dearly. Drug poisoning and overdose deaths are stigmatized in our society. The focus is on how the person died, not who they are. Society still holds onto old notions and beliefs about drugs which come with a value judgment about people who use drugs, which further contributes to stigma. Not everyone who uses drugs is an addict and not all drug use is inherently problematic. People who use drugs deserve dignity and respect when we are remembering and honouring those who have died by overdose or drug poisoning.

Cheryl – “My story” short version

Cheryl talks about her daughter’s organ donations.

Janice – “Grieving alone”

Janice discusses grieving alone and when its important to have people around you that can listen and understand what you are feeling.

Janice – “Go into feelings”

Janice explains how important it is to pay attention to your feelings.

Caileigh – Through play children learn so much about their grief

Caileigh discussed how children learn so much about their grief through play. There’s less confusion, there’s less anxiety, there’s more awareness. For the child and the parent, there is more acceptance of grief.

Janice – “Risks”

Janice talks about risks in behaviour and progress.

Maureen – “Grief can change the landscape of your relationships”

Maureen discusses how relationships can be challenged by grief.