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Bereavement support group starts in Chilliwack for those who’ve lost loved ones to opioid overdose

Healing Hearts is a free bereavement support group by Moms Stop the Harm
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Kim Lloyd, program supervisor with Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS) in Chilliwack, shows people how to administer naloxone during a free “friends and family” naloxone training workshop at Chilliwack Health and Housing Centre on Ttuesday, June 22, 2021. (Jenna Hauck/ Chilliwack Progress)

A Canadian bereavement support organization for those who have lost loved ones to substance overdose is opening up a support group in Chilliwack.

Healing Hearts is a free bereavement support group specific to those grieving the loss of a family member or friend due to overdose or substance use.

“Losing a loved one to substance use related harms often brings with it complex layers of grief. Many individuals feel isolated in their grief journey due to the stigma associated with the nature of the passing. Healing Hearts offers a safe, non-judgmental place for people to share their grief journey,” the support group stated in the announcement.

In 2016 three moms, Leslie McBain, Lorna Thomas and Petra Schulz, came together after the tragic loss of their sons. With a commitment to change drug policies and advocate for effective health supports for those who struggle, they started an organization called Moms Stop The Harm (MSTH) which began with a need to speak out about the ongoing drug poisoning crisis. Quickly recognizing that grieving families needed a safe place to mourn, MSTH starting Healing Hearts in 2017.

The Chilliwack Healing Hearts monthly support group is free to attend. Registration is required. For more information and to register contact Krista at healingheartschilliwack@gmail.com.

Learn more at www.healingheartscanada.org and MomsStopTheHarm.com.

RELATED: Black Press Media launches updated Overdose Prevention resource guide

RELATED: VIDEO: Overdose deaths climbing in Fraser Valley and beyond, says Chilliwack paramedic


 

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Jenna Hauck

About the Author: Jenna Hauck

I started my career at The Chilliwack Progress in 2000 as a photojournalist.
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