35 tcf.org.uk TCF NEWS | SUPPORTIVE EVENTS “This retreat was exactly what I didn't know I needed until I took part.” In May, over 50 parents came together at the beautiful Ammerdown Centre, close to Bath in Somerset, to participate in a retreat weekend designed specifically to support parents in early grief. The weekend included guest speaker, former Chair of trustees, Maria Ahern, who shared her thoughts about landing on ‘Planet Grief’ – a talk that resonated with so many of the parents who attended. The programme also included discussion groups, workshops and active sessions including yoga and relaxation and a local area walk. Crafting to remember our children was a part of the weekend and beautiful candle-jars, bracelet making (by men and women at the retreat) and creating a bottle garden were all enjoyed by participants. We were pleased to welcome a good proportion of men to this retreat and most participated in a group sharing session for bereaved dads facilitated by volunteers, Terry and Adie. Weekend retreat for parents in early bereavement “Although apprehensive during the days leading up to the retreat and upon arrival, I found the weekend really beneficial to supporting my grief. Just being with other parents experiencing what I was feeling, was really powerful and cathartic”. “I just feel that as a bereaved parent in the early years of their loss, that this retreat was exactly what I didn't know I needed until I took part. To be able to feel so safe and held up by other parents who are walking the same path means so much to me. I came to the retreat looking for two things - validation of my feelings and glimmers of hope for the future in a world without C. I absolutely came away with those aims met. To listen to parents who feel as I do is so comforting. To see that others are able to let joy back into their lives gives me hope for my future”. “As I'd hoped, I found the whole weekend was a safe space to express our grief and deep felt feelings without fear of any awkward reactions which is not usually possible in the "normal" world. I was moved hearing the stories of other parents and the really difficult circumstances some found themselves in. I appreciated being able to talk to other parents in the bar in the evening and get to know them and their story a bit better. The weekend was emotionally draining however it was not stressful and we could just "be", in the company of other bereaved parents. In that sense it provided a curiously relaxing environment”. Some lovely feedback about the retreat:
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