The Healing Center Seattle, WA

A Kay-lebration for Kay Monahan

Healing Center friends and family-

the Monahan family would like to invite you to celebrate Kay’s life on May 5, at Seattle’s Golden Gardens Bathhouse.

Kay was a Healing Center Advisory Board Member and huge supporter!  Generous and thoughtful, Kay has been championing this organization since it was just a dream. In fact, her family gave the money for us to incorporate in 2000.  Kay truly believed in The Healing Center and gave so much of herself to our clients, staff, board and volunteers. She was such a great cheerleader for our cause.

Please read the invitation below for details and how to RSVP to the Monahan Family.  You can also find the details at Kay’s CaringBridge Journal webpage.  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kaymonahan/journal

Dear Friends and Family of Kay Monahan ~

We are planning a gathering – a celebration of Kay’s life -
a Kay-lebration…on May 5th (Cinco de Kayo) 2012.

We have reserved the Golden Gardens Bathhouse – Kay enjoyed being out there at the beach this past year – a nature hit when she couldn’t venture out of the city. The hope is that this Seattle location will allow many folks to easily gather – it is a very informal “wear your play clothes” kind of place.

One of Kay’s favorite jokes was:
What time do you go to the dentist?…
2:30 (tooth hurty)”…
so we will gather together to Celebrate Kay -
2:30PM @ The Golden Gardens Bathhouse.
Friends and family will have stories and memories to share. The Beaconettes, a singing group that Kay loved to be a part of, will be there. There will be music and laughter… and, of course, tissue boxes on the tables because we miss her so much! Folks who want to, could stay on to play at the beach and share in a potluck/cookout. The Golden Gardens Bathhouse is a fine old building that will shelter us from the elements and give us a gathering space. We have also reserved the volleyball courts on the seaside of the Bathhouse, and a cooking shelter (with charcoal grills) for the day.

Please RSVP to Teresa – tmonahan@msn.com -  to let us know if it looks like you will be there. Please include the number of folks in your group, and give us an idea of whether you will want to stay and play and share in a potluck/cookout later in the day. Kids are welcome, of course. Maybe there will even be s’mores and a hootenanny around a bonfire for folks who spend the day? I’ll be back in touch with those who have RSVP’d once we have a feel for the size of the gathering.

We hope to see you there- and will certainly feel you there in spirit should you not be able to join us. In any event, we will be celebrating Kay the rest of our lives – she was a good girl.

“I found my Happy Place.”

“I found my Happy Place at The Healing Center.”

“ME TOO!”

This was one of the many client exchanges that took place in the kitchen at The Healing Center’s client potluck on Saturday.  Thank you to all the client families who attended and to the volunteers, Jeanne and Mary, who made sure all felt welcome and cared for.

Healing takes place in many ways at The Healing Center: one-on-one sessions with therapists specializing in grief support; peer support groups for both adults and children; art therapy; play therapy; community potlucks, retreats and workshops; and just dropping in for a cup of tea.  Everyone’s journey is unique, respected and supported at The Healing Center by passionate and experienced staff, volunteers and generous donors.

It’s very difficult to imagine finding a “Happy Place” when you are in the pit of grief; we’d like to help you try.  If you would like more information about the services The Healing Center has for young widows, widowers and their children; please call us at (206) 523-1206 to set-up an appointment for a tour.  We would love to introduce you to our Happy Place.

How to Share The Healing Center

We asked Healing Center client and volunteer Marshall to share with you the email he sent out to friends and family asking to support The Healing Center at this year’s May Day Walk.  His email and link to his fundraising page is below.  If you need assistance registering or setting up your page, please contact co-chair and volunteer, Mattie Bess at mattieb@healingcenterseattle.org or call The Healing Center (206) 523-1206.  Thank you for sharing The Healing Center and making sure we are available to help the next grieving widow.

On Sunday, May 6^th, I’m walking for The Healing Center, to honor Jill, Terri and Tom – people who’ve departed this life WAY too soon.

Jill knew all about The Healing Center (THC).  Our first “date” was their 10^th Anniversary Gala, back in 2010.  She got to hear all about THC, meet friends I’ve met on this new, unanticipated adventure, while enjoying wine and dancing to oldies tunes.  The next day she sent what was to become one of many pithy emails:

“Thank you for a great evening.  I haven’t danced in many a moon and love how it lifts my spirits.  Guess that’s what they invented dancing for, huh?  Gotta tell you, for a hall full of grieving people, they sure know how to let loose!  Fun and a first…”

That it would be the start of such an unexpected, incredible relationship, one that went farther and deeper than I ever thought I’d see again… who knew?  Well, I think one person who knew…  Jill was onto it long before I figured it out!

The Healing Center was central to it.  Jill heard me witness to its significance and healing effects.  She knew how important participation there is to me, giving back to a community that supports and nurtures people dealing with loss.  She attended functions and probably realized that not only had it helped me move forward after Terri’s untimely passing, but it also gave me strength to risk connection in her life.

Tom McDonald and I hopped on bikes 32 years ago and pedaled to Seattle from Florida.  He passed on at the end of March.  Tom and his family have played an integral role in my life, years ago connecting Terri and me, then pointing me towards THC after her passing, which ultimately led to the first date with Jill, and starting this past “Year of Magical Living”.  How lives intertwine!

We miss them all… This year I walk in honor of Jill, Terri and Tom.  I invite you to join me, or sponsor me, in honoring them, as well as anyone significant to you.  It’s going to be a celebration, (rain OR shine), and it goes to support the work of The Healing Center.  I’d love it if you could join me, or if not, sponsor me.  Click here to go to my fundraising page http://tinyurl.com/JTT2012.

Grief and loss, there’s a lot of it around…  It makes THC shine even brighter.

With gratitude,

Marshall

What is The Healing Center?  From the Healing Center’s Website (http://www.healingcenterseattle.org/):

The Healing Center’s goal is to support children, adults, and families as they come to terms with the death of a loved one. We offer a variety of services and a community of people. This is a place where bereaved people, adults, and children alike can stop for a little while, rest, be comforted, meet others who understand, and begin to move through their grief so that, ultimately, they can begin to make peace with death and rebuild their lives. The long-term goal is that each person will come to a place of peace and will find new meaning as they reinvest in life. We are a community of people who support each other.

Volunteer Dashers – Thank you

On a freezing cold, rainy St. Paddy’s Day, Healing Center client and group volunteers braved the elements to support the Detlef Schrempf Foundation’s F5 St. Pat’s Dash.  It all began with volunteers “manning” our registration table at Run 26 in Mill Creek, the week before the event.  Over 80 volunteer hours were donated to make sure runners had their bibs and timers.

The big Dash day arrived and volunteers were helping in the parking garage at 4:45 am; serving coffee at 5:45, and then frozen custard at 10am!  Once the 13,000 runners completed the dash in the rain and hail; THC volunteers poured beers in the beer garden as the snow flakes created whiteout conditions.  It was one of the coldest events The Healing Center has ever participated in.

Because of our outstanding volunteers, the Detlef Schrempf Foundation will grant monies to help support the costs of our children’s programs.  If you missed the Dash, but would like to volunteer for the Detlef Schrempf Foundation Celebrity Gala & Auction on June 23, (to benefit THC and Rise n’Shine), please email Lisa at lisae@healingcenterseattle.org or call Lisa at The Healing Center (206) 523-1206, ext. 15.

The Healing Center could not be available to the next grieving family if it weren’t for these outstanding volunteers: Rita, Linda, Mike, Julia, Donna, Mary Jean, Mary, Aubrey, Scott, Christi, Dustin, Thomas, Alexander, Jennifer, Nicole, Nick, Jaclyn, Walter, Jennifer and Peyton.  Thank you all very, very much!

Non-verbal Grief Expression

Adult Creative Group from the Client’s Perspective

At the healing center I learned to express gratitude for a club I never wanted to join.

A year and a half after my husbands’ sudden, unexpected death, my support system had moved on.  I was alone and just beginning my real grieving  process.

At The Healing Center, the group facilitators and grief support groups, with wisdom and silence, allowed me to speak my heart.  No subject was off limits, no one tried to minimize the tremendous loss like no other.

There came a time when my words couldn’t sustain me.  The creative group gave me a new non-verbal expression for my grieving.  I have learned skills that have helped me grow and heal simultaneously.

I never imagined a place I turned to in desperation would one day be an incredible haven for healing.

For all that has been given me, I thank you. – Suzi

Adult Creative is facilitated by Michele Koger and volunteer, Jane Bergerson.  It meets at The Healing Center, on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:30-8:30.  Initial intake is required and an appointment may be made by calling The Healing Center at (206) 523-1206.

Sleep Yoga on Fridays

Soaring Heart Sleep Yoga Classes

to benefit The Healing Center

Every Friday, April 6-May25 from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Soaring Heart Natural Bed Company is excited to announce that beginning April 6th, we will be offering Sleep Yoga Classes right here in our showroom.  A suggested donation of $10.00 per participant will both underwrite our program costs and provide benefit to The Healing Center.  Space is limited to 20 participants – Advance registration and waiver release forms may be found at www.soaringheart.com.  Plenty of parking is available behind the building.

Sleep Yoga – What is it?

Sound sleeping is a gift, which some people seem to possess more than others. There are many factors that can hinder restful sleep: insomnia, sleep apnea, back and neck pain, jet lag, anxiety, depression, stress or a combination of these common issues.

Regardless of whether you have chronic sleeping issues or have intermittent challenges to restful sleep, there are natural solutions that can help you sleep with greater ease.  It is important to note that some sleeping conditions and some folks will need medical assistance for their individual situations, however, we can all benefit from tips on how to sleep well. One fun way to learn natural sleeping techniques is through yoga class geared towards gentle stretching, breath work and meditation.

What to Expect

Yoga for Sleep will include gentle stretching to open the body and alleviate tight places that have accumulated over the workweek.  It will integrate breath and mindfulness practices that will serve to keep the busy mind focused to receive maximum benefits from the movement.  Props such as supportive pillows will be provided for the movement practice to create ease for the body in restorative, long held comfortable positions.  The last part of class will feature guided meditation practice to release layers of tension in the physical body and relax the mind.  Please bring your yoga mat, blanket, comfy clothes and an open mind!

Note:  There are no changing rooms and we are a fragrance free facility.

Your Instructor

Natalie Ginapp has been a student of yoga for over a decade.  The yoga practice and philosophy has been her solid companion throughout many trails and tribulations.  She stays busy teaching yoga, leading workshops and retreats, while continuing her studies in Pranayama, Sutras, Chakras, Meditation, seasonal Asana and Ayurveda.  You can expect a mindful blend of these concepts as well as skilled adjustments and alignment principles in yoga class with Natalie.  She views life as the practice, and yoga an effective guide on how to live each day to the fullest.  A lover of all active things, you can spot Natalie with her companion in life and adventure, Joe, surfing waves, snowboarding down mountains and taking extraordinary treks off beaten trails, map & compass in hand!  Om!

A Note from Kath to Early Group (Retreaters)

Dear Early Group Members,

First, I want to thank you for being a part of The Healing Center.  I continue to be grateful for each of you who come to us with your grief.  I look forward to meeting those of you I have not yet met and I look forward to getting to know others better.

I wanted to take a minute to encourage you to attend the Early Group Retreat that is coming up in April.  I believe that the time you will spend there is invaluable. I consider the retreats one of the best things we offer at The Healing Center.  It is incredible what can happen in one weekend with others who understand. Here are a few comments from participants at past retreats:

“What a wonderful atmosphere of sharing, inclusiveness and caring. I feel lucky also to have met other retreaters so generous with resources, time and empathy. I definitely came away feeling more positive and richer for the experience.”

“What a high I am on right now, since the retreat… I feel so strongly that with my support group, along with my own resources, I WILL SURVIVE. And not only survive but live to enjoy life again someday. Before the retreat, I truly did not know if I could or would; I didn’t really care. Now I do, and this is huge for me.”

“The retreat was a wonderful experience. It was a time all the many distractions in life stood still and I was able to listen to my own thoughts.”

“I liked the fact that the retreat was lightly structured, but participants were strongly supported. We were fed, touched, guided and comforted while being allowed to discover new ways of learning, communicating and surviving in the outside world. Visualization activities were very helpful. I definitely came away feeling more positive and richer for the experience. Thank you for this gift of time together.”

I will hope to see many of you on Whidbey Island and perhaps others at our May Day Walk on May 6th. Please continue to take care of yourselves and trust in your process. If you have particular questions about the retreat, please feel free to contact me at:
kathmccormack@live.com
cell 707 331-9535

Take care!
Kath

Early Group Retreat -Sign up

Weekend Early Group Retreat

April 27, 28, & 29

Whidbey Island

Please join us for a weekend Early Group retreat as we explore creative ways to heal our grief through group support, reflection, self-care, massage, sharing of stories and pictures, guided visualization and other healing activities.  This retreat is specifically for men and women who have had a partner die within the last two years.

Willow Pond Lodge and Lake House, on Whidbey Island, WA, is the site of this year’s retreat; made possible by Travis Penn & John Wicher.  Participants will receive a packet of information before the retreat, including a schedule, what to bring, and directions.

The cost of the retreat is $350 for the weekend and includes: food, lodging, group sessions and a massage.  Space is limited to 6-8 people, so we ask you to reserve your space with a $100 deposit.  Scholarships are available, and it may be possible to get insurance reimbursement for this retreat.

To reserve your space, please phone or email Tom Freeman at tomf@healingcenterseattle.org, or (206) 523-1206, ext. 12.

Matt, Jenn, Jake and Zoe

The Healing Center would like to highlight Jenn’s family experience so as to draw attention to the legislative efforts that are taking place for SHB 2366, before the Health & Long-Term Care Committee of the Washington State Senate, next Wednesday, 2/22 at 8AM.  For more information read Jenn’s letter to Healing Center Families on our blog.  Also visit King 5 New Day for Jenn on Stigma to Hope.

In February 2011, 40 year old Matt Adler, my loving husband, the father of young Jake and Zoe, and an accomplished attorney took his own life while in the midst of a battle with severe depression and an anxiety disorder.  Matt was a gentle, intelligent and witty man who made an indelible impression on those he met.  His death has left a gaping hole in the lives of many.  As his family, not a day goes by that we don’t continue to mourn the loss of Matt while at the same time recognizing signs of his continuing presence in rainbows.

Part of my own grief journey has been a desire to understand, as much as possible, Matt’s death.  I have reached out to experts in suicide for help.  On this journey, I learned there an opportunity for intervention that was missed by the mental health care professionals who were seeing my husband in the days leading up to his death.  This fact has caused me tremendous agony.

The experts have told me, most people who die by suicide have a mental illness and that some of these people, also have a chance for a life-saving intervention, but it might not happen. Training of our health care professionals in suicide assessment and treatment is often uneven, not up to date, or non-existent. It hasn’t been a priority for our health care professionals as a whole (of course, there are always exceptions).

In an effort to turn Matt’s death into a force for good, I approached legislator Representative Tina Orwall of the 33rd Legislative District to sponsor a bill that would require all health care professionals to have training in the assessment and treatment of suicidal patients. She instantly recognized the importance of the bill as suicide is a leading cause of premature death and WA State has many returning Veterans who are at high risk for suicide. The bill was passed unanimously in the House Health and Wellness Committee on 1/26 and will hopefully, be moving over to the Senate side of the legislature soon.

Stay tuned for how you can help…

-Jenn

Travel to Olympia to support SHB2366

Wednesday (2/22), Tom Freeman will be driving down to Olympia (along with THC Families) for the committee hearing, and will be leaving The Healing Center at 6:45 AM.  If you would like to attend the hearing in Olympia, and if you would like to carpool, let Tom know so arrangements may be made.  Tom can be reached at tomf@healingcenterseattle.org, or (206) 523-1206 ext. 12.

For More information about Matt and Jenn’s Story click here.

Jenn Stuber’s letter to Healing Center Families affected by suicide:

Dear Friends at the Healing Center,

A hearing for SHB 2366 has been scheduled before the Health & Long-Term Care Committee of the Washington State Senate for next Wednesday, 2/22 at 8AM. I understand it is not an ideal time, but I am writing to ask whether you might consider joining a caravan of survivors of suicide death traveling to Olympia.  The bill requires that health and mental health professionals receive training in the assessment, treatment and management of suicide risk.  Many professionals do not have adequate training and greater competence in and comfort with suicide can reduce unnecessary deaths.

You would probably not be testifying as the hearing time is very short (2 hours) and there are a total of five bills that the committee is reviewing that morning.  But we need people to attend the hearing, to sign in (in support of the bill) and to carry a sign in the hearing room that reads, “In memory of _______________.  I am asking for your support of SHB 2366 or something like that. I would provide the signs; you would fill in the name of your loved one.

PLEASE let me know ASAP whether you can come to Olympia as part of this important effort and I will prepare a sign for you and send directions to the hearing. My email address is jenn.stuber@gmail.com.  If you cannot, please write your senator and express your support for the legislation. How to do that (along with a sample communication) is indicated below.

Many thanks,

Jenn Stuber

Simple steps to writing your state Senator:

1. Go to http://www.leg.wa.gov/

2. Click on ‘Find Your Legislator’ on the top left menu bar

3. Type in your name and address, your Senator will pop up

4. Click on that Senator’s name and then his/ her email address

5. Enter your name, address, whether you care to receive a response from your senator and the bill number SHB2366

Example Message:

As a survivor of suicide death, I am writing to urge your support for SHB 2366. I know all too well that suicide is a major public health problem. In the State of Washington in 2009 there were 915 suicide deaths – nearly five times the number of homicides and twice as many deaths as were attributed to motor vehicle accidents. And in 2009 there were also 3,707 admissions to Washington State hospitals as a result of suicidal behavior.

The costs associated with suicide are staggering – billions are lost in future earnings and billions are spent in hospitalizations and emergency room visits. These figures don’t even begin to touch the personal costs for schools, organizations, communities and families when these tragedies occur. It is critical that our health and mental health professionals receive adequate training to appropriately assess, treat and manage this behavior.

Unfortunately many are inadequately trained – or not trained at all. All health and mental health professionals currently have standards regarding the number of hours that are required for license of their renewal; this legislation does not alter that amount. It simply requires the practitioner to receive a specified number of those hours in the assessment, treatment and management of suicide risk. The general public assumes that health care professionals have the skills to help a person who is suicidal, but the fact is that we can’t count on this. By supporting this legislation you are helping to save lives.

Thank you!