This holiday season might mark the initial one following the loss of a loved one. The holidays can become hard for many as grief tends to cling to us. It doesn’t just affect us personally; it also becomes intertwined with specific moments and locations.

“Instead of the usual holiday traditions evoking feelings of “comfort and joy,” they tend to resurface memories and provoke emotions that can also bring forth feelings of sorrow and heartache,” says Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth Manager of Bereavement, Social Work, and Pastoral Care Services.

RVNAhealth will host “Grief, Healing and the Holidays” on Tuesday, Nov. 14th from 1:00-2:30pm, at its 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield office. The lecture will include “how to cope with the emotions and feelings of the season, how to handle holiday traditions, and what to do differently – and the same,” says Walkup.

Following Walkup’s discussion, there will be an optional opportunity to stay and enjoy fellowship over coffee and cookies.

As we will be serving refreshments, please register HERE to help us with planning.

The program is open to all members of the community and is intended to offer support through the holiday season for those who have experienced a loss. Please contact Garrett Walkup, at 475-529-6118, or gwalkup@rvnahealth.org if you have any questions.