Good Grief – Rejected by a Grief Group! (The Wall Street Journal)
(From The Wall Street Journal) When my husband began hospice care last spring, I decided to join a grief group. I thought it might be helpful to share stories and support with others who were facing the same heartbreak. I googled “grief groups” and found one that met weekly at a local church. It looked as though I was just in time for the next session, so I called and spoke to the group leader. “I’d like to join your grief group,” I said. “I’m so sorry for your loss,” she responded sympathetically. “When did your loved one die?” “Well, my husband hasn’t exactly died yet. He has end-stage dementia,” I explained. There was a pause on the other end of the line. “I’m afraid you aren’t eligible to join,” she said. “Our group is only for people whose friends or family members have actually died.” I was so taken aback all I could mange was an inarticulate “Oh!” I hung … Read on