Grief Support
We have all felt the solitude of grief at some time or another. And while there is
no right or wrong way to grieve after a significant loss, most discover how to eventually move on with life. Hospice helps with that process.
Heart of Hospice Bereavement Program and Support Groups are available to all community members, not just Hospice families.
Heart of Hospice has Spiritual Care Counselors and social workers available to support patients, families and the community with bereavement services and grief support. In addition to bereavement services, which may include personal visits, answering questions and providing helpful information concerning the grief process, our staff offers opportunities for group support and memorial gatherings. You may contact either our Counselors or social workers at 541-386-1942, 888-882-1942, 541-296-2289 or email us here.
Heart of Hospice is a member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). This organization provides a wealth of information and resources on Grief and Bereavement. See our Resources page.
Looking for some quick information on how to deal with your current grief? Please follow the links below to specific articles from the NHPCO.
Grief and Bereavement
Grief During the Holidays
Types of Grief and Loss
The Grief Experience
Grief Support
Supporting Friends or Family Who Are Grieving
Supporting a Grieving Caregiver
Tips for Helping Grieving Employees
Grief – Frequently Asked Questions
Heart of Hospice Butterfly Release
Every year in May we hold a Butterfly Release in both Hood River and The Dalles that is a community service event.
The butterfly is a symbol of resurrection and hope. If you have lost a loved one; family, friend or pet, then you are invited and encouraged to join us. We will provide, free of charge, while supplies last, individually boxed butterflies (one per person). There will be a reading of names, music, and an opportunity to share your experiences, thoughts, and feelings. WE will then simultaneously release our butterflies. The experience is very cathartic. The butterfly release is a very touching and dignified way to honor the memory of our loved ones. The release is peaceful, healing and serene, and an inspirational way of providing friends and family a special way to express their final goodbyes.
Call us for this year’s dates and locations.