For most, Father’s Day is viewed as a time when children of all ages are able to celebrate the paternal bond they have with the man who helped raise them.

It’s a way to thank your dad for always attending every Little League game or dance recital and to let him know that he’s had a lasting influence on the person you’ve become.

However, if your father has recently died, the third Sunday in June can be especially tough from an emotional standpoint. While others may be taking their dads to the ballgame or showering him with love, affection and gift cards, you’re left with only memories. Continue reading →

It seems as if almost every major event in our lives that celebrates an achievement is planned to a T. From weddings and bridal showers to graduation, retirement and/or birthday parties, we like to preciously plan those gatherings and engagements that are meant to honor an individual to ensure that the hiccups are kept to a minimum.

The one thing many people don’t organize in advance, however, is their own funeral. Sure, getting things in order now for a day that, hopefully, won’t occur until years down the road can be a morbid thought. Continue reading →

Anna Jarvis established the first Mother’s Day in 1908 to honor the life of her deceased mother and campaigned for it to be nationally recognized six years later.  This holiday, which occurs on the second Sunday of every May, is viewed as a time when children are able to openly celebrate the woman who gave them life.

Sure, it’s become a lot more commercialized since then, with florists, greeting card companies and bakeries all jumping on board to make a profit. Yet, the idea has generally remained the same.

For those who have recently experienced the death of their mother, the day can be difficult, especially if it’s been less than a year since her death. Continue reading →

It’s not easy when a loved one is battling a terminal illness.

While an imminent death may seem overwhelming at times, hospice – which is a care service that focuses on end of a life care rather than disease curing – is available to help.

Knowing exactly what to expect from hospice care can bring peace of mind to you and your family.

Continue reading →

Our friends at Westminster Presbyterian Church are hosting the Spring edition of their Grief Recovery Support Program.  The program is faith-based and comprised of friendly, caring people who will walk alongside each other through one of life’s most painful experiences, grief.  The group is led by a team of trained facilitators.  The next session:

Wednesdays, April 4 – May 2, 2018

6:45 – 8:00 P.M.

Memorial Parlor

Westminster Presbyterian Church

2040 Washington Road

Pittsburgh, PA 15241

To register and for more information, contact Peg Kinsey (412-835-6630 or Kinsey@westminster-church.org). To help defray the cost of materials, a donation of $10.00 is suggested, but not required.