Helping Children Heal

Loss affects children of every age differently. While the loss of a loved one has a powerful impact on the psyche, they have distinctly child-like abilities to understand and express it, such as the need to show grief through play rather than words. Through counseling, Hospice of Palm Beach County's John J. Brogan Bereavement Center helps young children and teenagers understand their feelings of loss, find healthy ways of coping and rebuild their view of the world.

As it is with adults, it is important for children to connect with peers who can understand their life experiences. Every March, the school-aged children in our care are invited to attend Camp SeaStar, a fun-filled, 3-day weekend of friendship and healing. Funded by Hospice of Palm Beach County Foundation, the camp is free-of-charge for every child who attends. In the pristine Everglades, campers share their stories as they participate in adventure camping activities, music, art, and games.

"With a safe environment and such a powerful common bond, friendships form quickly," shares Chelsea Johnson, Hospice of Palm Beach County Supportive Care Manager. "The campers learn new ways to cope with change, and most of all, they discover how to share their grief with each other in a way that is such an honor to witness."

At the very beginning of camp, the children set personal goals such as wisdom or strength. Choosing animals that symbolize those traits, they create "totem necklaces" that they wear throughout the weekend.

The groups tackle adventure-based challenges, working together to achieve their own personal goals. "As each child steps outside of their comfort zone, they rely on newfound friends for mutual support. The feelings of accomplishment and confidence help the kids to progress amazingly well once they return home," adds Johnson.

One of the most poignant activities is "Lanterns of Love." While they decorate lanterns based on their memories and experience of their loved ones, the children share those stories with their friends and counselors. Saturday evening, the lanterns are hung in the trees on an island, where the campers can bond over a campfire, music and stories.

Around the campfire, counselors share a story about Lanterns of Love and everyone joins in a song written by a Hospice of Palm Beach County music therapist. As they walk back to their cabins, campers can see the light in their lanterns twinkling back at them. "The kids put a lot of feeling into creating something that reflects their loved ones," explains Johnson. "It's comforting for them to know that they can still bask in their love and stay connected. It is such a beautiful expression of the healing process."

And, as if to watch over them, the lanterns shine all through the night. Once can see them across the lake from the cabins where the campers are fast asleep.

Grief Support Services for Families

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the John J. Brogan bereavement Center offers group support to everyone in Palm Beach County who has lost a loved one, at no charge. To learn more about Hospice of Palm Beach County's grief support services, please call us at 561.227.5175.