AT CAMP GOOD HOPE AND TEEN ENCOUNTER…YOUNG PEOPLE DISCOVER THEY ARE NOT ALONE

FLORAL CITY--Amid serious illness and death, children and teens are sometimes overlooked, yet their needs are quite significant.  The employees of the abc Division of Hospice of Citrus County provide ongoing counseling and grief support to all children and coordinate two age appropriate camps twice a year to children who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

The camp setting provides two continuous days for children to participate in activities with other children who have had a similar experience.

At Camp Good Hope, children enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, games and arts and crafts all designed with a therapeutic purpose.  These recreational activities are interspersed with times for the children to talk, share, contemplate and grieve. 

Kathy Walsh , Children’s Social Worker stated, “While everyone expresses grief in their own way, children especially need to know that there is no right or wrong way to feel. Some of the children have never discussed their loss. Being with children who have endured a similar loss provides comfort.”

A young boy was given the opportunity to plant a flower in memory of his Mom.  He told his dad all about it, and visited his mom’s grave for the first time.  He placed the fresh flower at his mom’s graveside and offered his support by saying, “It’s okay to be sad, Dad.”  Dad said, “I guess camp helped both of us.”

Teenagers, already struggling with the transition from childhood to young adulthood, may also have a very difficult time communicating their pain and confusion after a loss. Teen Encounter helps teenagers share their feelings with each other.  They develop better coping skills and build self esteem.  Sarah Morley , Children’s Services Coordinator commented, “Teens don’t like to stand out in a crowd, but when everyone has something in common, they relate.  In the support group setting they experience the unconditional acceptance of their peers while building friendships. They are able to bond.”

One teen confided “I know Dad had no intention of abandoning me, he left me through no power of his own.”   Another teen stated, “I feel I can trust the other teens here. It helps me to share my thoughts and memories with those who can understand how I am feeling.”   The abc Division, Camp Good Hope and Teen Encounter are supported solely through community donations, corporate sponsorships and grants.

Licensed in 1985 and accredited by the Joint Commission, Hospice of Citrus County is preserving the integrity of the hospice philosophy in the finest traditions of serving you.  For information on services, call 352.527.2020 or 866.642.0962. Visit us on the web at www.hospiceofcitruscounty.org.