Bereavement/Grief/Grieving Support Groups
Mercy offers a variety of support groups for those experiencing different kinds of death loss. Each group serves as a resource for a specific type of loss.
- For any bereaved adult, we offer two support groups – A Cup of Comfort and Conversation, and Evening Learning Together
- For women under age 65 who have lost a spouse or significant other, we have Younger Spouse Support Group
- For bereaved young people ages 6-14 who have lost a loved one, we offer Grieving and Growing
- For parents who have lost a baby, we provide Heartprints
- For anyone who has lost a loved one, we offer The Journey Through Grief
Every group is here to provide support and comfort. In grieving, we need to reach out. That’s where the Mercy Touch of our bereavement support groups can help.
We know that attending a support group for the first time can be difficult. But we have found that expressing our feelings can help heal the wound of grief. As we connect with others struggling with the pain of losing a loved one we are able to share burdens, make new friends and discover that healing can come through the power of relationship.
Our groups are small and informal. We learn together about the experience of loss and to find comfort as we journey through grief. These are not therapy groups. They are mutual, self-help groups facilitated by a trained leader who ensures that everyone has a chance to share, if they wish. Our discussions are confidential.
Call Mercy’s Bereavement Coordinator, Barbara Koch, at 319-398-6735 for resource information and referrals – or just to talk.
The Foundation 2 Crisis Line is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A trained, compassionate listener will be happy to visit with you. The toll-free number is 1-800-332-4224. The local Cedar Rapids area number is 319-362-2174.
For more information on grieving and bereavement, visit one of the following websites:
www.griefnet.org
www.widownet.org
www.hospicefoundation.org
www.bereavementmag.com
