New program helps families cope

Valley Life editor

Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things a person ever will go through, and a new program being started is aimed at helping people get through those tough times.

There currently is a grief support group offered every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Barn Plaza. But sometimes, people aren't into the whole "support group" thing, and organizers of a new program understand that.

"We're calling it Compassionate Connection, and it is a new part of our bereavement program," said Pat Karella of Hospice of Mat-Su. "Some people are uncomfortable coming to the support group, so this is something that offers them one-on-one peer support."

Karella said people who have recently lost a loved one will be paired with someone who has lost a loved one approximately 18 months ago, creating a personal connection.

"We'll probably start with a simple phone call," Karella said.

The program, which is being cosponsored by AARP, is looking for volunteers. The next training session begins Jan. 22, 2005, at Wayland Baptist College from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The program is being launched thanks in part to the help of Michaele Hannam, a student at Mat-Su College.

"It's something we've wanted to do for a while but we don't have the manpower," Karella said. "Michaele is doing it as part of her curriculum. She's done a great job."

Karella said neither the support group or the Compassionate Connection are limited to Hospice members -- the public is invited to participate in either.

For more information, interested people can all the Hospice of Mat-Su office at 352-4800.