Darren’s story

Receiving bereavement support

When Darren’s wife, Laura, died following a stay in our Inpatient Unit, he knew our support for his family didn’t end there. Darren was able to access a course of weekly one-to-one counselling with one of our trained counsellors. He’s also since gone on to attend our drop-in bereavement support group at Peace Hospice in Watford.

He says: “My first one-to-one counselling session wasn’t easy but I was fine after that. The drop-in group sessions have also been a revelation. “I enjoy going to speak with people who have gone through something similar to me. They may have lost their husband, wife, child, grandparent, and they’re from all walks of life – but we all have something in common.

“Sometimes we’re laughing, sometimes we’re crying, sometimes we’re just talking about our families.

“Counselling has been one of the best things to happen to me. It’s also wonderful to know that you can always go back. Some people I know have been going to the drop-in group for almost a year. The difference Rennie Grove Peace has made has been incredible.”

Reflecting on the support Darren and his family received both during Laura’s illness and following her death, he said:

“The hospice feels like a home from home. I can’t put into words how wonderful the place is. There is always someone there to hold your hand and give advice, with a shoulder for you to cry on.”