Throughout any given year, families experience the loss of someone they loved very much and who died.  Perhaps their loved one died in a traffic accident, committed suicide, died in a fire, drowned, or possibly died in a war.  In many instances, the loved one may have died of natural causes.
In each instance, loved ones were left behind to deal with their grief and sorrow, struggling to continue in life.  Hospice Care of America will hold our annual Community Remembrance Gathering for all of those who have lost a loved one and who want to join with others to remember someone who was very special to them. The event is an open house style gathering with light refreshments and interactive healing stations from 4 until 6 p.m. at Church of the Palms located at 1425 Okatie Highway (S.C. 170) in Okatie, South Carolina. Hospice Care of America cares for families and patients confronting a life limiting illness.
“Those of us in hospice care realize the need for grief support and how important it is for people to work through their grief,” stated Sara Nolette, administrator for Hospice Care of America. “Our annual Community Remembrance Gatherings in the past have been very meaningful for those who have attended,” Nolette said.
“Those attending light a candle in remembrance of their loved one. This year we will be adding additional remembrance activities, and have designed the event to be interactive throughout.”
Participants are encouraged to bring a special remembrance ornament or a symbolic personal item to hang on our Hospice Care of America Christmas tree in remembrance of their loved one. Upon request, all items will be available for pickup post holidays. Those attending in the past have found the gathering to be helpful.
“There is no formula for dealing with grief and loss,” said a Beaufort resident who attended last year.  “You never get over the loss. I would encourage people to attend, at least one time.  I think the gathering is of particular value to those who have had a recent loss.”
This event is open and free to the community. It offers and provides a creative planned time for those who have lost a loved one to participate in a symbolic activity, and connect with others in a safe and comfortable environment conductive to remembrance activities. Light refreshments will be served.
To register or for more information about the Community Remembrance Gathering, please call Jeannelle Benek at 843-785-5901. Hospice Care of America serves Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton and Jasper counties.