STAGES OF GRIEF

Serious injuries, loss of limbs, paralysis and death thrust its victim, their family and loved ones into the throes of grief. And the grieving process is not necessarily limited to death and dying. It’s an emotional journey we take when a major life change crosses our path. It could be set off by divorce, unemployment, relocation (moving from one area to another), material loss, or any number of situations of loss. So for those of us who have suffered a life-threatening illness, devastating disease, or loss of mobility, we too go through the grieving process.

It wasn’t until several years had passed after my diagnosis that I realized my “sadness” and depression would linger longer than usual. I recognized a pattern to my emotional responses and once I was able to identify that my sorrow was akin to grieving, everything fell into place emotionally. A person will mostly likely go through the seven stages of grief. While these stages are not set in stone and everyone grieves or experiences loss differently, there is a common progression and it's helpful for not only the patient to be aware of them but also for the family and caregivers. In fact, this information is vital to that person's support system. When one of our loved one's lives is permanently changed due to a disability, in a way, everyone involved experiences a loss. I urge you to familiarize yourself with the Stages of Grief so you may be better equipped to recognize them in yourself or in a loved one.

For children who are coping with grief, disaster and/or loss, I urge you to seek professional support and learn how you, your family and the school can all work together to help support the child through this most difficult time.