Compassionate Grief Support
Grief is a journey that many of us don’t ask for but find ourselves on. If we could change our circumstances, in many cases, we would. But grief doesn’t have to paralyze us out of fear. Instead, facing our fear and letting ourselves experience grief, rather than avoid it, has proven to be an important step in the healing process.
Dr. Joanne Cacciatore, PhD understands the effects of traumatic grief firsthand following the loss of her baby daughter and has devoted her life to changing the culture of care surrounding grief support. She is the author of the book, Bearing the Unbearable and the founder of the MISS Foundation which provides care to families experiencing similar loss.
Monthly Peer Support Meetings – Meet with other parents (when you’re ready) to support and care for each other. Share stories and share your lives as you cry together, laugh together and support each other… in the stillness and in the storm.
We will try to provide you with some valuable coping skills and resources that we have found that may be helpful to you. Your story is meant to be shared… and we’re here to listen!
Julie Levandoski, RN, BSN, Compassionate Bereavement Care Certified Provider – MISS Foundation
Julie is a Registered Nurse with experience in Labor & Delivery, Infertility and in the OB/Gyn office setting. She is a wife and mother of three living children and one angel baby, Justin, who was born sleeping in 2005. Her birth story has led her to seek training with the MISS Foundation to help other families who also have experienced the loss of a child.
Julie became a Compassionate Bereavement Care Certified Provider in June 2014. She currently serves as a volunteer peer support group facilitator and HOPE mentor in the Chicagoland area. She is thrilled to partner with Once Upon a Lullaby to bring her compassionate spirit and expertise to the Elmhurst area.
Marcia Huizinga, RN, BSN, Compassionate Bereavement Care Certified Provider – September, 2019
Marcia is a registered nurse with experience in Women’s Health. She is a wife and mother of 3 (plus 3). Although not affected personally by the loss of a child, Marcia has walked alongside many who have and has realized a need for more support in the community. Following God’s leading, she has stepped out in faith and included an opportunity in her business for grieving families to share their stories and receive support & guidance in return. She plans to also obtain certification through the MISS Foundation in Sept. 2019, and together with Julie, provide hope for hurting families in the western suburbs.
Some Helpful Resources:
- Still Missed Support Program Resources
119 N Oak St, Hinsdale, IL (across from Hinsdale Hospital) (Calandra Rm on the Main floor of Tupper Hall)
Sharon Bowers, RN; stillmissed@amitahealth.org
*Group meets on the 2nd Monday of each month from 7:30-9:00 pm - SHARE
- a. DOWNERS GROVE, IL
Share Support Group at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital
3815 Highland Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515
Susan Duke – 630-275-1520; susan.duke@advocatehealth.com
*Group meets on the 2nd Thursday of every month @ 7:30pm in the Oak Room - b. NAPERVILLE, IL
Edward Hospital Share Support Group c/o Edward Hospital
801 S. Washington, Naperville, IL
Susan Villa – 630-527-3740; susan.villa@eehealth.org
Brandi Northrup LCSW; brandi.northrup@eehealth.org
*Group meets on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday 7:15-9:15pm
- a. DOWNERS GROVE, IL
*Call to confirm dates prior to arrival.