BSA Hospice to Offer Three Virtual Support Groups

Virtual Support Groups to Begin in June​

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BSA Hospice will be helping families pick up the pieces after the grief of loss, change, and separation due to COVID-19 with the launch of two new online workshops and virtual support groups. 

 

“The whole world is experiencing loss,” explained Deborah Andrews, Bereavement Coordinator at BSA Hospice of the Southwest. “Loss of loved ones, loss of jobs and financial security, and even loss of normalcy and routine.”

 

Andrews said the new workshops are designed to help people speak about their pain in order to reconcile and move forward. 

 

“Everyone’s journey through grief is individual, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone,” Andrews explained. “We want to offer a comfortable environment and tips to help normalize the emotions people are dealing with during this hard time.”

 

Many families have limited contact with loved ones due to the visiting restrictions placed on hospitals, nursing homes, and even at-home isolation, causing people to experience grief in entirely new ways. 

 

“As humans, we have a strong need for connection and touch,” explained Andrews. “Being unable to meet that need isn’t easy.” 

 

For some families, even the connection and closure of funerals has been stripped away. The physical distance families are required to have during this time adds another layer to the grief people are experiencing. 

 

“Many people in these situations are used to being caregivers and helpers and now that part of them has been taken away. It is important for them to care for themselves too, and talking about it is a great place to start.” 

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The dates and times for the two classes are as follows:

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Distanced Grief: End of Life Care during COVID-19: Dealing with the challenges of end of life in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and at home. This class will be held on Wednesdays from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm on the following dates: June 17; July 1, 15, 29; Aug 12, 26; Sept 9, 23; Oct 7, 21; Nov 4, 18; Dec 2, 16. 

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Life After Loss during COVID-19: Coping with Grief in Isolation: This class will be held on Thursdays from 6 to 7 pm on the following dates: June 18; July 2, 16, 30, Aug 13, 27; Sept 10, 24; Oct 8, 2.

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On the Frontline: Support for Healthcare Workers

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BSA Hospice of the Southwest will be providing ongoing virtual support to the brave men and women on the front lines of healthcare who are keeping our community safe during COVID-19.

 

“The nature of these medical professional’s jobs has changed so quickly,” explained Deborah Andrews, Bereavement Coordinator at BSA Hospice of the Southwest.”They are there to make people better, recover, and go home. But, with COVID-19 that isn’t always the case. That dramatic change is hard.”

 

From working long shifts and not being fully equipped, to fear of potentially exposing themselves and their loved ones, and even the rising rates of patients lost, healthcare professionals are grieving, too. 

 

“We live in a culture and society that is uncomfortable in grief,” explained Andrews. “So our healthcare professionals are trying to put their feelings aside and push forward every day, but they are human, too, and have to take care of themselves. It is okay to be stressed and afraid. It’s normal,” 

 

BSA Hospice wants to provide a confidential support group where healthcare professionals can come and be a part of a community of like-minded individuals. 

 

“We want this to be a place for you to be heard and acknowledged in what you are going through by a community that understands the struggles you are facing,” Andrews said. “During this time, it's more important than ever for you to know you aren’t alone.” 

 

The workshops will be held virtually using Zoom and all healthcare professionals are encouraged to participate. Sessions will be hosted from 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm, twice-monthly starting June 16th. 

 

More information is available at hospicesouthwest.com. Those wanting to register or seeking more information should call BSA Hospice of the Southwest at 806-350-1352. 

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Anyone wanting to register or who would like more information on any of these classes should call Deborah Andrews at BSA Hospice of the Southwest at 350-1352 or email her at deborahandrews@hospicesouthwest.com for more information.