Grieving Together: The ELISA Grief Group Aids Families in Overcoming the Tragic Death of Their Child
In the heart of Paris, a joyful moment was captured on camera as four-year-old Estera laughed with Mickey Mouse, oblivious to the tragic turn of events that were soon to unfold. On February 6, 2023, Estera passed away, leaving her family and community in shock.
Despite the sudden and heart-wrenching loss, Estera's parents believe she was a gift from God. Her short life was filled with numerous challenges, as she battled a complex malformation and a liver tumor, undergoing a total of 20 operations throughout her lifetime.
In the face of such grief, Flavia Savin, who lost her daughter Estera, is advocating for open discussions about grief to no longer be a taboo subject. She, along with many others, has found solace and support in the "Living Without You" bereavement group at ELISA Family Support.
ELISA Family Support, based in Germany, offers a safe space for parents who have lost a child, regardless of age, cause, or time of loss. Simone Haftel, a counsellor at ELISA, leads the group, providing emotional support and a compassionate environment for parents to process their grief together.
The group meetings, which take place in Ingolstadt or Neuburg, offer open discussions about various topics related to coping with grief. They are scheduled to start again on February 14, 2025.
Bereavement groups like "Living Without You" provide crucial social and emotional support that supplements therapeutic treatments. Such groups often help prevent prolonged grief disorder by offering social connection and understanding.
For those interested in participating in ELISA Family Support's "Living Without You" group or similar bereavement groups for parents in Germany, direct contact with ELISA Family Support is recommended. Registrations can be made by email to [email protected] or [email protected].
It's important to note that the group meetings are free for affected parents. The sessions are scheduled at two-week intervals, with eight meetings in total.
For broader grief support services in Germany, many are affiliated with hospitals, social service agencies, or religious organizations that provide specialized programs for bereaved parents. These often include structured group meetings, therapy sessions, and resources tailored for the emotional challenges after losing a child.
In memory of Estera, and for all parents who have lost a child, grief support groups offer a beacon of hope and healing. They provide a space to share experiences, find understanding, and begin the journey towards healing.
Science has a vital role in understanding the psychological and physiological effects of grief, which can significantly impact mental health. Health-and-wellness programs that incorporate support groups for bereaved parents, like ELISA Family Support's "Living Without You," can aid in managing the emotional turmoil that grief brings and promote mental health recovery.
