Compassion Autumn Winter 2023

31 tcf.org.uk TCF NEWS | SUPPORTIVE EVENTS “ This is the only thing I have done since my loss and I feel a shift. I have learned, reflected and heard. I have felt safe among wonderful people who 'get it'. I have been allowed time to say his name, write his name and share my pain. I cannot thank you enough. Absolutely wonderful and I am now freer" “ Amazing weekend and so well organized. Workshops were well run and a lovely group of people, all friendly, welcoming and supportive. A great help with my grief and positive way of remembering my sister. Lovely location too and great food. Thank you.” “ I found the weekend so helpful and well organised and it was so comforting to meet people. I had… been feeling so low …. but after coming away from the weekend I have only positive thoughts mainly from what I have learnt and taken away from the workshops and talking to so many people. … They have been literally a life-saver to me. Without exception, everyone I spoke and listened to was compassionate, completely accepting of me and my grief, and I loved that everyone seemed to understand without explanation. Where were all the men? There were several of us, but it was clear that most participants were women. From my own experience of the weekend, the ‘men’s group’ session was particularly interesting, and I had an insight (for the first time) into other men’s grief journeys. There were many similarities to my own experiences but also significant differences. I realised then how much I had been missing that connection with other men who had lost their precious children to suicide. I had the impression that a lot of thought had gone into the various talks, workshops, and activities. Everything I participated in was excellent (especially the Tai-Chi and writing). I was sad to say goodbye to all the wonderful people I met, and I promised myself I would attend the men’s retreat”. Others commented This helpful talk was given by Sangeeta Mahajan at our recent weekend retreat for parents bereaved by suicide or substance or alcohol use. Many bereaved parents, siblings and grandparents will find many aspects of Sangeeta's words helpful whatever the cause of the loss of your loved one. Sangeeta deepens our understanding of the basic needs of those in grief, helps us to identify where we might be stuck, what might be missing and how we might find what's right for us. She gives us insights into what could help us and how we can build on our strengths on this road of healing. You can listen to her talk online at tcf.org.uk/sixthings Six Things We Need