Posted on June 9, 2016
Kids age 6 to 12, who have experienced a loss are invited to attend Hospice of Guernsey’s Kids Kamp on June 27 to 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m at Deerassic Park. The camp allows children to express their grief and to share and learn from others who have had similar experiences.
This year’s theme is “Inside Out”. Kids will create masks that are similar to the characters in the Disney movie and the feelings they represent. Attendees will also enjoy a drum circle, games, crafts, hiking and fishing. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Kids should wear old clothes and shoes for exploring the woods and creeks.
Preregistration required by Friday, June 26. Contact Lois Merrill or Terri Wootton with questions or registrations at 740-432-7440.
Posted on April 26, 2016
Just as we have always heard that April showers bring May flowers, it is also true that we grow as we walk along the path of grief. Buried inside each of us is the potential to blossom into something beautiful after we have come through the rain. As I write this, I am taking time to look back over the last few years and reflect on the losses I have experienced. You see…I have lost my dad and my dearest friend since working here at hospice; BUT I have learned that I must leave the rains and storms of yesterday behind me and move into a new season where there can once again be flowers in bloom. My life must go on, and I have concluded that my loved ones would want that for me. It is my desire for you to learn the meaning of this as well.
May brings with it Memorial Day and a time of honoring those we love. For the average person, Memorial Day means a three-day weekend, and a time of rest or relaxation. But you probably do not feel like the average person at this time in your life, so I encourage you to do something that will honor the one you love in a different way than might be the norm. You may choose to plant a tree or shrub in your garden… one that will remind you of the one who is no longer with you. In time, it will be a comfort and a joy to behold. It is a living, breathing thing-something with life… just like you will remember your loved one as it ushers in precious memories of your times together. Plant it and water it with love! Enjoy it for years to come!
Upcoming events:
May 9: “Lunch Bunch” Support Group at Mr. Lee’s noon. Join us for fellowship.
May 10: Barnesville Lunch Bunch @ 12:00 pm @ Annie K’s
May 19: Suicide Survivor’s Support Group 6:00 pm at Mr. Lees
May 23: Friends of Faith @ noon @ Annie K’s in Barnesville
May 24: Support Group @ 5:30 pm at the Hospice office
May 26: Support breakfast @ Patty’s Place @ 9:00 am in Caldwell
I hope to see you soon. And as always, I’m available by phone at 740-432-7440.
God Bless!
Terri Wootton MSW, LISW, ACHP-SW
Bereavement Coordinator
Posted on April 7, 2016
Staff and volunteers at Hospice of Guernsey, Inc. are sprucing up their flamingos to get ready for the 3rd Annual Flamingo 5K – a 5K run and 1-mile walk on Saturday, August 6, at 8 a.m. The pink birds that have been associated with Hospice of Guernsey for years, because of their Flamingo Flocking fundraisers, are pulling double duty by marking the route of the Flamingo Run.
Last year the Flamingo 5K had nearly 200 participants, in their third year they hope in draw an even bigger crowd.
The event includes a 5K run, 5K walk and a 1-mile memorial walk. There will be medals for the top overall runners, and top three in each age range, and a medal for the top overall walker. This year, there will also be several ‘fun’ awards presented, including ‘Best Dressed’, so don’t be afraid to embrace your inner flamingo.
After the race, stick around for some fun family activities, as the race results are being tabulated.
Pre-registration prior to July 15 guarantees a T-shirt. The cost is $20 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under. Event day registration is $25.
Race packets may be picked up early on August 3 and 4 at the Hospice Office from 9:30am to 4:30pm.
Registration the day of the Flamingo Run will begin at 7 a.m. at Pavilion #1, corner of Edgeworth Ave. and North 8th St.
For information, call Jenna Conaway or Kathi Williams at 740-432-7440 or email jenna@firewireinternet.com.
Click here for the 2016 registration form.
Posted on April 4, 2016
Hospice of Guernsey is excited to announce its 2nd annual Touch A Truck, which will take place at Deerassic Park on Saturday, June 4 from 10am to 2pm.
Touch A Truck is a FREE family event that allows children of all ages a hands-on opportunity to explore various vehicles and meet the people who build, protect and serve our community. (Donations will be accepted, but there is no admission cost.) Along with the ‘trucks’ there will be food vendors, raffles and face painting.
“Last year we had nearly 20 ‘trucks’ including a fire truck, law enforcement vehicles, a big pink concrete truck, helicopter , tow truck, car hauler and an ice cream truck. We’re hoping to have an even bigger line-up this year!”
For more information, contact Jenna Conaway at 740-432-7440 or visit our facebook page here.
Posted on February 24, 2016
Patty’s Place in Caldwell is the place to be on Thursday, March 10 from 5 to 7pm. The restaurant will be hosting a “special waiter night” for Hospice of Guernsey, Inc.
Patty’s staff and Hospice volunteers will be working together to serve you, with the tips during those two hours going to Hospice of Guernsey, Inc. All donations raised will help with patient care and bereavement services.
Hospice of Guernsey, Inc. is a nonprofit organization and serves Guernsey, Noble and western Belmont counties. For more information about the event or Hospice services, call 740-432-7440.
Posted on February 16, 2016
So far the promise of cold weather has been a reality…SNOW, SNOW, and more SNOW! I so long for the first hints of spring! Hopefully March will bring with it the sunshine I so love. The days are becoming longer and I would love to begin to think of outside chores and activities. I am already decorating the outdoor patio in my mind. One of my favorite spots is the old porch swing. I love to sit on it and watch the world go by. It gives me great peace, and occasionally I’ll grab a nap after a busy day at work. It is my get-a-way for a few needed moments.
As March brings springtime, I hope it also brings for you sunshine and hope in the new season. It is only natural to have dreary days mixed in with the sunshine, so don’t be discouraged when they creep in. Just try to stay focused. Plan an activity that will bring you joy, and act upon it. Have lunch with a friend, feed the ducks, or take a walk. But whatever you do, look for that moment or activity that gives you a few minutes of peace, and bask in its warmth. It may be what gets you through to the next season.
But no matter where you find yourself as you read this, remember that we at Hospice are here to lend you support along the way. Our upcoming events for the month of March are as follows:
March 8– Lunch Bunch at Annie K’s (Barnesville) at noon. Anyone who may enjoy eating and talking with others, please join us.
March 14- “Lunch Bunch” at Mr. Lee’s at noon. We meet for a time of fellowship and sharing. Lunch is on your own. Everyone welcome.
March 17– Suicide Survivor’s Support Group at 6:00 pm at Mr. Lee’s.
March 22-Support Group @ 5:30 p.m. at the Hospice Office.
March 24– Breakfast support group meets @ 9:00 am @ Patty’s Place in Belle Valley.
March 28– “Friends of Faith” meets at noon at Annie K’s in Barnesville.
If you have questions about any of the events, or you just need someone to talk to, call me at 432-7440. May spring shine upon you!
Terri Wootton MSW, LISW, AHPC-SW
Bereavement Coordinator
Posted on January 4, 2016
A new year is upon us! Where does the time go? When I was young I hated it when someone said how fast the time went, for as I child, I didn’t believe it and I couldn’t wait for the years to pass! Now it is sometimes just a reminder of what was. It is sometimes hard not to wish those days and years back. But, as we are so aware, we cannot! We do, however, need to remind ourselves to make the most of today and pray for a happier tomorrow.
For many of you, this New Year may only be a reminder of who will not be with you as you face tomorrow. A friend once shared four little words with me that might help to make a difference in your days. They are “I have a choice”. We can choose to worry and be upset at life’s circumstances, or we can choose to move ahead one day at a time, making our life count for something. I hope we can do that together in the coming year.
Upcoming events:
January 11– Lunch Bunch at Mr. Lee’s at noon. We meet for a time of
fellowship and sharing. Lunch is on your own.
January 12–Lunch Bunch at Annie K’s at noon.
January 13– NEW 9 WEEK SUPPORT GROUP. This group will meet at 5:30 at the Hospice office and will meet every other week. Please contact me if interested. Once the group starts, it will be closed to others.
January 21–Suicide Survivor’s Support Group at 6:00 at Mr. Lee’s
January 25-Friends of Faith meets at Annie K’s at noon.
January 26- Support Group @ 5:30 pm at the Hospice Office…(also a painting party with Lois for those who would like to participate. CALL FOR DETAILS.)
January 28- Support breakfast at Patty’s Place in Belle Valley at 9:00 am.
If you have any questions about an event, call me at 432-7440. I am also available for one on one time. Remember that together and with support, we can make it through each new day.
God Bless you in this New Year!
Terri Wootton LISW, ACHP-SW
Bereavement Coordinator
Posted on December 17, 2015
“Happy Holidays!”
“Merry Christmas!”
“Happy New Year!”
I had never realized how many holidays had the words “happy” or “merry” attached to the day or the season prior to taking my current job as a bereavement counselor at Hospice of Guernsey. I soon became aware that these words frequently have a hollow ring for the bereaved during the holidays, or any events such as birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s and Father’s Day that were typically thought of as being “happy.”
While being confronted with the “happys” and “merry’s” could present a challenge at any time, it will likely become much more pronounced during the holidays when families traditionally gather together — Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.
Happy memories are often dulled by the pain and sorrow of experiencing the holidays without a loved one who has died.
It seems everywhere you turn there is something to break your heart a little more. Stores are decorated with the symbols of the holiday. The Hallmark Channel reminds us of stories of togetherness, love and sharing. Everyone is beginning to ask the dreaded question, “What are you doing for the holidays?” They can’t seem to wait for that special day to arrive. You can’t wait for it to be over.
So, a commonly asked question by grieving people at this time of year is, “How can I get through the holidays?”
Even with all of the emotions swirling around you, the holiday season does not have to be entirely sad. There are ways to help you cope with your grief during this time. I’ll touch on a few:
PLAN AHEAD: Be aware that this might be a difficult time for you. You may feel out of sorts with the celebratory tone of the season. The additional stress may affect you emotionally, cognitively and physically; this is a NORMAL reaction But it is important to be prepared for these feelings.
LOWER EXPECTATIONS (Recognize that the holidays will not be the same): If you try to keep everything as it was, you’ll be disappointed. Doing things a bit differently can acknowledge the change while preserving continuity with the past.
COMMUNICATE WITH FAMILY MEMBERS: The holiday may affect other family members. Talk over your plans. Respect their choices and needs, and compromise if necessary.
AVOID ADDITIONAL STRESS (accept your limitations): Decide what you really want to do, and what can be avoided. Do the right thing — not what others think is right, but what you need and want to do.
It’s OK to feel SAD.
It’s OK to feel GOOD. Give yourself permission to laugh and even have fun. Some individuals feel guilty if they find themselves enjoying an activity. Laughing is your body’s way of letting you relax and regain some strength for a few moments during your grief.
CRY, CRY, CRY: Allow yourself to cry when you feel the need. It helps you both physically and emotionally. It has an effect similar to exercise in that it reduces stress and calms anxiety.
CONFIDE IN SOMEONE: Find someone to listen who does not feel he must fix the problem. They need to be able to listen over and over to the words that are bottled up inside. (A friend, pastor, counselor.)
TRADITIONS: Keep the old OR start something new.
MEMORIALIZE your loved one: Make it meaningful to you.You may choose to light a candle, hang a special ornament, or buy and donate a gift in memory of your loved one.
Although these special tributes may cause tears, they are usually helpful and therapeutic in helping you through the holidays. Have the family all participate in choosing what to do. Review your lists together, and come to agreement. Help one another with what they need to do to accomplish their gift to their loved one.
The BOTTON LINE is –Make it comfortable for you!
If you are grieving this holiday season, we at Hospice of Guernsey want to extend an invitation to you, offering support in the weeks and months ahead.
For more information on Handling the Holidays: There will be a group meeting on the topic on Tuesday, Nov. 24 at5:30 p.m. at the Hospice office, 9711 East Pike Road, Cambridge.
For more information on bereavement support, contact me at 740-432-7440.
Blessings to you and yours this Holiday Season!
Terri Wootton LISW, ACHP-SW is bereavement coordinator for Hospice of Guernsey.
Posted on November 19, 2015
As you enter the last month of the year, you have already survived one major holiday of the season. I hope that as you focused on the true meaning of Thanksgiving, you were able to give thanks for something good in your life. But don’t stop now; for the Christmas holiday is upon us! Just as I encouraged you to look at the true meaning of Thanksgiving, I urge you to do something similar at Christmas. The author of this poem states her feelings beautifully!
First Christmas
It can’t possibly be Christmas without her being here.
Yet the world is singing round me, joyful tidings and good cheer.
Though I try to put on armor and brave the sights and sounds,
a few moments worth of shopping, and the tears are spilling down.
I pray for strength to do it, find a path through holidays,
look for shortcuts, good ideas, and some directions through the maze.
Then I find at last the answer: I’ll include her symbolically.
And the giving becomes perfect; her love’s flowing down, through me
– Genesse Bourdeau Gentry
Sometimes it only takes a new perspective to help us get through the toughest times. I pray you will allow your loved one to shine through you in some way this holiday season. I hope you will consider joining us for the Holiday Memorial Service on December 10th. The Hospice staff will be in attendance to meet with you.
Upcoming events:
Lunch Bunch …..December 8 at noon at Annie K’s in Barnesville
Memorial Service….. @ Southgate Hotel (Formerly the Holiday Inn) in Cambridge December 10 at 6:00 pm
Lunch Bunch…..December 14 at noon at Mr. Lee’s in Cambridge
Friends of Faith….December 14…A social group meeting for lunch@ Annie K’s@ noon. For questions, contact Lydia Young at 614-313-5525
Breakfast Support Group….December 17 @ Patty’s Place in Belle Valley @ 9:00 am
Suicide Survivor’s Group…..December 17 at 6:00 pm @ Mr. Lee’s
Support Group…..The group meeting on the 4th Tuesday of the month in Cambridge will not meet this month.
I am also available by phone or appointment. For more information on above events, call 740-432-7440. Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a Happier New Year!
Terri Wootton MSW, LISW, ACHP-SW
Bereavement Coordinator
Posted on November 17, 2015
Each year Hospice of Guernsey, Inc. creates a dove ornament to honor your loved ones. This year the ornament also celebrates Hospice of Guernsey’s 30th anniversary. The ornament is an iridescent bulb with a poem, white feathers and snow inside. They are each tied with a gold bow and a plantable seed tag. A donation of $6 per ornament is requested.
The ornaments will decorate the Dove Trees in each community Hospice of Guernsey serves.
Guernsey: Mr. Lee’s Restaurant and Peoples Bank (845 Wheeling Ave.) in Cambridge
Noble: Farmers & Merchants Bank in Caldwell
Belmont: Wes Banco in Barnesville
Funds raised will go to patient care and bereavement services.
The ornaments are yours to keep and can be picked up from the location they are displayed anytime throughout the holidays, OR they will be returned to the Hospice office the week after New Years. They can be picked up at Hospice of Guernsey until January 31.
Click here for the Dove Ornament order form.
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