Camp Good Grief 5K Raises Money for Bereavement Counseling Services

We know that loss and grief are a part of life. Sometimes we need support from others to begin healing, and the Kemmons Wilson Family Center for Good Grief can help with that. Our masters-level counselors are specially trained to deal with grief issues and provide comprehensive bereavement services to people of all ages. These services are provided at no charge. But that’s not all.

Children need special attention when it comes to grief – they’re expected to be able to perform well in school and behave at home while coping with a loss that is often tragic and unexpected. Camp Good Grief started 18 years ago to help children through the journey of healing with therapy sessions, fun activities, and even therapy dogs.

Willette Campbell personally knows the impact that grief can have on your life and the lives of your loved ones. Almost six years ago, a close friend and coworker was one of the first patients at the Baptist Trinity Hospice House. After she passed away there, Willette knew she wanted to get involved with the Hospice House and the Grief Center. Little did she know how much her life was going to change.

“Ten months after my dear friend passed away, my son had a car accident and died of his injuries,” she said. “Three and a half months after that, my daughter passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly. My husband and I inherited our granddaughter, Olivia. She attended Camp Good Grief that summer.”

Thanks to the services offered at the Kemmons Wilson Center for Good Grief and the camp, Willette’s family was able to find the peace they needed to cope with the great loss they had experienced in such a short amount of time. In fact, Olivia is passionate about returning to the camp as a buddy for other children who are grieving.

“To this day, my family and I depend on the counselors at the Grief Center and the caregivers at the Hospice House when needed,” said Willette. “We are so very grateful for each and every one of them. They are truly angels of God.”

People can take advantage of Camp Good Grief and the services offered at the center for no charge, but in order for these to be offered at no charge, financial support is crucial. Events like the upcoming Camp Good Grief 5K are a great way to show support and help people who are grieving find the comfort they need. Register here for the Camp Good Grief 5K on October 2nd.

“My advice to those who are grieving is not to go it alone,” said Willette. “There is no need when there are counselors available who understand what you are going through and can help you walk through the many emotions you feel during the process. Grief never ends – being at peace, however, allows you to move on.”