Young Widows - Peer-Led Support Topic Meeting (First Tuesday of Month)

Our topic this month is: "Creating a Connected Life"

We know that a connected life is a critical part of rebuilding our lives--providing a network of support, understanding, and valuable friendships.

We will start these meetings with an introduction about the three "circles of connection." These circles are not fixed or mutually exclusive. People move in and out of them at different times, depending on a variety of circumstances. And they all play a vital role in our social health.

The Inner Circle, representing our strongest bonds, our confidantes,

The Middle Circle, representing our more casual friends,

The Outer Circle, representing our acquaintances.

This is an essential, not-to-be-missed topic for our community. We know first-hand how our rebuilding journeys are enhanced by caring social connection.

This connectedness enables us to think about the future and move forward. We really hope you join us this month as we discuss our current connections, the need for new connections, and how we can create a satisfying connected life.

Our Topic Committee volunteers suggest reading the following:

Are you Just "Collecting Friends" or Building Relationships?

The Importance of Friends by Abigail Brenner MD i Psychology Today

Friendships: Enrich Your Life and Improve Your Health from MAYO CLINIC

In preparation for these meetings, click here to watch Dawn's video.

Co-Leaders:  Anjalee,  Laura & Michelle

"Being a GEM volunteer allows me to return and share the kindness, support, and encouragement that other widows may need. I sincerely wish that every widow can find happiness again.".

Anjalee Dave:  Zooming in from Queens, NY

About me:  I am a mother, physician, widow, wife and a different woman.

Interests:   I  was a part of W Connection during its infancy, 13 years ago. The organization and women I met, were crucial to my ability to build a new life. This inspiration, sense of community and support has been with me since. 

Works well with:  Young widows.  I was 37 when my husband died of cancer and our son was almost two. The path to creating my present life was challenging but I can proudly say that I am genuinely happy and fulfilled once again.

Year of loss : 2010

"The support of other widows was a lifeline for me when I lost my husband; as a "GEM volunteer, it is my goal to now be a source of hope and encouragement to other widows new on this journey."

Laura Fallon: Zooming in from Souteast Florida
About Me: Registered Nurse in Neonatal Intensive care, but I loved being a stay-at-home mom to two daugters.

Interests: Yoga, boating and even some golf.  I recently joined a crossfit gym.
Works well with:  Young Widows.  I was suddenly widowed 2 months before my 40th birthday. 
Year of loss: 2001, when my daughters were 8 and 11 years old.

Michelle Las:  Zooming in from Weehawken, NJ

About me:  I left my NYC legal recruiting career after 17 years to pursue my passion after I lost my husband and became a certified health coach. I try to practice a lifestyle of gratitude, learning, positivity and fulfillment, and glad I found the W Connection to help others get there as well.

Interests:  Cooking and creating new recipes, being outdoors, reading, podcasts, fitness, travel, organizing (literally) everything!

Works well with:  Young widows, career women trying to rebalance life and move forward, NYC-area members

Year of loss : 2018