Facing the loss of a loved one is a daunting task.
Facing the loss of a loved one is a daunting task.
Continuing its commitment to ensure individuals and families can live better in the face of that, Hospice of Hilo recently hosted its free Ohana Bereavement Camp 2014.
“Losing a loved one is incredibly challenging and can sometimes be especially difficult for children,” said Hospice of Hilo Children’s Bereavement Counselor Fujio Sato. “We had very simple but meaningful goals: learn about grief, their own feelings and how to feel better.”
“There were a lot of arts and crafts activities like picture frame making and sculpting to allow families to work together towards expressing their thoughts and emotions,” said Anjali Kala, Hospice of Hilo bereavement counselor.
“They also got to create a paper wall of drawings and were able to throw with water balloons at it symbolizing the release of negative feelings.”
Families participated in activities according to age groups to ensure proper support dynamics.
The day ended with the creation of luminaries and releasing them on water followed by time for reflection and meditation.
“I have avoided children because I thought it would remind me too much of my son and cause we more sadness,” said Eloise Ridgley. “But this camp has reminded me what joy is. The children have taught me how to smile again, to be OK with feeling happiness in the midst of tragedy.”
“We are so grateful to Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation, Friends of Hawaii and The Rotary Club of South Hilo for making this camp possible,” Sato said. “Their support enabled us to support many families through their grief.”
“With the holidays coming up it becomes, for some, overwhelmingly difficult to live with the loss of a loved one. It’s really important to take the time to take care of yourself. Be kind to yourself, ask for and accept help, avoid comparing yourself to others and know that you will survive,” Kala said.
For more information about the ohana camps or any of the other bereavement support programs Hospice of Hilo offers free of charge to the community, call 969-1733.