Our own Anne Sherman introduced today’s speaker and colleague, Sharon Van Tuyle, Director of Bereavement Services at Hospice of Lenawee. She announced that the organization’s Annual Run, Walk & Eat was scheduled for June 25^th and that their annual Dinner, Denim & Dancing event was scheduled for April 14^th.

Sharon began with Hospice in 1990 when they had 9 patients and provided bereavement support to families along with two other staff members. They soon expanded to support in the entire community. The organization expanded as a result. They now boast over 12 different programs at no cost. Generous donors along with the proceeds from their various fundraising events throughout the year make it possible for Hospice to provide them.

Sharon said she was grateful for the others who work in her department who are compassionate about serving those who mourn the death of loved ones. Among the many programs they offer are: Lunch Bunch – a program that brings individuals who have suffered losses; Trillium – a monthly women’s support group; Let’s Talk it Over – an adult daytime support group, etc. Hospice in collaboration with Kay Ross at Community Mental Health, she said, is planning to offer a program for parents who have lost a child to a drug overdose.

A retreat is planned for September for families who wish to memorialize they loved ones followed by horse riding rounding out the afternoon of the full day event, Sharon said. Grieving is important but so is time out for fun and relaxation, she said. All workshops, seminars and programs are free of charge, Sharon said. For more information or to register you can call 517-263-2323.