GROUP PARTICIPANT TESTIMONIALS

What impact has this group experience had on your grief journey?
Responses: 
"This group experience has supported my grief journey.  It would be very difficult to grieve alone, and in silence.  This group has grieved collectively and openly...together as one whole "family."

"A profound impact.  It is the first help I received and am eternally grateful for the support I received."

"This group has helped me talk about my son in a positive way."



What were the most valuable aspects of this group experience for you?
Responses:
"Being given the opportunity to share our story and to hear the grief stories of other parents in a safe, non-threatening way.  Judy & Joe made me feel "at home," respected and comfortable."

"I was able to talk openly-no judgement-and listen to and learn from others."

"I knew that I was not alone in my grief or my feelings.  I had a safe place to speak and share.  I was able to relate to each parent and learn from them."



What did you learn about "where you are" in your grief journey now?
Responses:
"My new friends give me support to help me take the next step, because they understand how hard it is to go on without my son.  They give me strength."

"I learned I'm in early grief.  One day at a time works. Everyone's journey is different."

"I realized that my grief journey is a lifelong process of moving forward.  


What changes have you seen or experienced in yourself that you might be able to attribute, at least in part, to this group experience?
Responses:
"I'm taking new steps toward adjusting to this new life without my son."

"I have been able to share my son's amazing life with more people."

"A deeper understanding of the process and journey of mourning.  This helps me to cope. I continue to learn about compassion and love.  I need to be more compassionate and gentle with myself."


How did your participation in this group impact your relationships at home and with friends?
Responses:
"Participation within this group has given me the self-confidence to speak my mind and 'say it as it is' at home and with friends.  I am not holding anything back.  Tears flow when they do!"

"I can talk more openly, and am more positive."

"I am grateful that John and I have done this together, as we are able to share and talk about everything together.  I am beginning to understand how and why others react and respond the way they do.  I am so grateful for the people who are there for us and willing to take the "risk."

If you could describe in a sentence or two what this group has meant to you, what would you say?
Responses:
"I don't know that that can be put into words.  It opened the door of my heart and mind to begin to walk this incredibly difficult journey.  It showed me that I am not alone, and that there is hope!  It was a safe refuge."

"This group has given me the courage to go on in the face of great adversity.  It would be easier to just give up...group members have given me strength to live each day full (or at least try to).  I have been given a circle of new friends that UNDERSTAND what my/our pain is all about."

"The group provided a safe place to be able to 'feel how I feel.' It was very comfortable."

What are some of the perceptions of the group leader(s) and his/her particular style of leadership?
Responses:
"Judy & Joe are very relaxed and flexible.  Conversations went where I needed them to be.  No pressure."

"You have both shown a tremendous amount of compassion, care, patience, understanding and kindness.  You were able to reach out and connect to each person in this group.  You provide an amazing gift to all who are beginning this journey."

"Judy & Joe were open minded and very invitational to give all group members an opportunity to share their innermost thoughts and feelings.  They were walking our journeys with us."
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