Bereavement Support Services
The death of a loved one, particularly a child, requires the strongest support possible for the whole family. That’s why we’ve designed a bereavement (grief) support program, Love Always, at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Children’s Hospital, Delaware to walk with you through this difficult time. Our support program is here for you now or anytime in the months and years to come.
Love Always Services
When you’ve lost a child, it is essential for you and your family to have help addressing your emotions and coping with your loss. Our team members have training and experience to compassionately help you through this time. You can reach us directly at lovealways@nemours.org or at (302) 651-4863. Emails and voicemails are returned during business hours, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Therapeutic Support
After the death of a child, our bereavement team, will make attempts to reach out to you, both shortly after the death as well as several times throughout the year. During these calls we provide supportive listening, assess coping needs, and if needed connect you to resources in your community. You will also receive emails or mailings about bereavement events and programs throughout the year. Our goal is to provide support that is tailored to your families’ unique needs, which we know may evolve over time.
Child Life Support for Siblings
Our Child Life Specialist has extensive experience in providing bereavement support — helping young children and teenagers deal with the loss of their siblings through play, art and discussion. Our Child Life Specialist is available to talk with parents about specific concerns they may have about their child’s coping and can conduct virtual, hospital or home visits to support siblings.
HOPE Group
HOPE Group is a 6-week parent support group held virtually in the evenings twice a year. HOPE Group is an opportunity to share your experiences, and hear what others are going through in a supportive environment. Each of the six sessions will include open conversation about specific topics that commonly come up for bereaved parents. Participants are invited to share as much as they are comfortable.
Camp Molly
Camp Molly is for children and teens ages 8-17 who have experienced the death of a sibling. This free weekend sleepover camp provides a fun, safe place where kids can participate in camp activities and connect with other children who have experienced a similar loss. Camp is held each fall and camper applications, and camp dates can be found at the link below. Camp Molly is open to any sibling who has lost a sibling, even if your child wasn’t a ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ patient.
Love Always Facebook Group
The Love Always Facebook group is a closed group that is available for ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ parents who have experienced the death of a child. The group is a place to find connection, share experiences and find healing together.
Remembrance Ceremonies
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Children’s Hospital, Delaware hosts 2 annual Remembrance Ceremonies each year to honor patients who have died. The Spring Remembrance Ceremony is hosted at the ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Estate and is reserved for families who are 2 years or less out from their loss. The Fall Remembrance Ceremony is hosted virtually and is for anyone who has ever experienced the death of a child at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½. We hope that these events are a time of celebration, healing and connection between bereaved families.
Contact Us
ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ Children’s Hospital, Delaware
Bereavement Services
Palliative and Supportive Care Team (302) 651-4863