Grief Resources

There is no "right" way to grieve or to help someone who is grieving — spouses, friends parents, children, co-workers, no two people are exactly alike. There is, however, a common thread that runs through each personal experience with grief. It is not about knowing the perfect thing to say or do, but often the simple act of being there that helps the most.

Michael Allen, president of Allen Mortuary, has been a contributor to local newspapers on grief-related topics. To read his newspaper columns, select your topic of choice below:

• Plotting Your Own Course
• A Final Gift
• Suicide and Grief
• Remembering Grandfather Bill
• Helping a Grieving Friend
• Helping a Child Through a Loss
• Grieving the Loss of a Friend
• Funerals Are for the Living
• Adjusting to Life Without Your Partner
• Coping with the Holidays and Grief

Both Hospice of Emanuel (Turlock) and Community Hospice (Modesto) offer free grief support groups and counseling. These resources are excellent opportunities for those grieving the loss of someone special. For more information on grief resources at Hospice of Emanuel, phone (209) 664-2550 or visit their website link at www.emanuelmedicalcenter.org (Care & Services > Hospice of Emanuel). For more information on grief resources at Community Hospice, phone (209) 578-6300 or visit their website at www.hospiceheart.org.

The book Grief - Thoughts & Reflections was written by one of our own families, Michael & Danielle Everett, who lost their 9 year old daughter to leukemia. We had the privilege of walking with Michael and Danielle as they laid their precious daughter to rest. Their book was written during the first few years of their grieving process. Their hope is that they can walk beside you for a while and perhaps provide some comfort by letting you know you are not alone. Visit their website www.griefsource.com to learn more about this special book or to communicate your own personal thoughts and reflections.