Julien's House newsletter - The Companion (Issue 2)

How to Manage Grief During Back to School Time

Back to school means different things for different parents. There may be a sense of excitement and relief that the holidays are finally over, or maybe nerves and apprehension for first time parents.

For bereaved parents and loved ones, this back to school period can be intensely challenging. It may come as a harsh reminder that your special child will not be going to school this year, another milestone event they will miss.

Outpourings of support are common during special holidays, like Christmas or Mother’s/Father’s Day, or significant personal days like birthdays and death days.

But back to school is different. Families may feel alone and isolated. It is often these fairly normal life occurrences that can trigger bereaved families and throw them back into the depths of their grief.

Tips to help you manage this emotional time.

INTERNATIONAL BEREAVED FATHER'S DAY

AUGUST 26, 2021

Be Proactive in Healing

Therapy is often helpful to sort out the intense emotions associated with your grief.

Find a Balance

At times you will feel overwhelmed with emotions, and at other times, you will feel distant from them. Work towards a balance.

Write in your Journal

Keep track of fond memories you had with your loved one or write a letter to your loved one updating them on your current life.

Honour your Loved One

Share stories of fond memories with those around you.

Contact Julien's House

Grief is a journey that need not be travelled alone. Through our peer-to-peer support called “companioning” we have well trained volunteers who have experienced grief through the loss of a loved one or have experience in bereavement support.

Please recognize this day by lighting a candle on Sunday, August 26th at 7pm to remember all of the children who have lost their lives too soon.

If you would like to share a photo on social media to show your support, please use the hashtags

#julienshouse

#internationalbeveraredfathersday

#thinkingofyou

#achildofmine

#keepingtheirmemoryalive

NATIONAL GRIEF AWARENESS DAY

AUGUST 30, 2021

Support a Grieving Friend

Offer to support your friend in whatever way they need. Check in on them, understand the grieving process, listen more, let them cry, ask questions, offer practical help, be willing to sit in silence, and remember important dates.

Engage in Self-Care

Everyone grieves in their unique way. Go for a walk outside, call a friend, listen to music, write in a journal, go for a bike ride, join a bereavement group and engage in small acts of kindness for others and yourself.

Join a Restorative Activity

Restorative Activities help with gaining some balance in your life. They can provide the breathing space and breaks from grief your body needs to reconcile your loss and boost your mood (Julien's House).

At the Annual General Meeting held July 15, 2021, Julien’s House saw the confirmation of two new Board Members, Barb Ducedre and Bill Kim, and bid a fond farewell to another Board Member who has completed her 3-year term.

Site Management Committee - SMC

The Site Management Committee (SMC) is pleased to welcome new Committee Member Barbara Ducedre.

The newly expanded SMC had its first in-person meeting at Julien's House on Baseline Road. This was the first time some Members were able to tour the property. The excitement is growing as the renovation plans begin to take shape.

Chair, Site Management Committee

Board of Directors

Germain Gaudet

Fundraising, Marketing and Communications Committee

Julien's House just made it easier for you to purchase all of our great items (or make a donation)! Visit JuliensHouse.ca

Chair, FMC Committee

Board of Directors

Bill Marra