Third Wednesday of Month (TWM) - Peer-Led Support Topic Meeting

Our topic this month is: “Finding Balance between Loss and Hope” 

How does the sadness of loss not dominate our lives?  

We often hear from our members that they feel like they are grieving "incorrectly." That they are not "getting to closure." That they are stuck in sadness and grief.

This is the topic we explore in April. How can we carry sadness while moving forward? Can we simultaneously experience sadness and joy, hurt and love, grief and hope?

Please join us as we discuss these meaningful questions.

In preparation for these meetings, our Topic Committee volunteers suggest the following articles: 

Changing Your Relationship with Grief 

10 Tips for Integrating and Transcending Grief & Loss

During and After Grief, it is Possible to Find Happiness 

Co-Leaders:  Mary, Ilene & Michelle

Mary Smith zooming in from Rockville Center, NY

About me: I am a lifelong learner -- a perfect match as an educator and former corporate mainstay.  As an active member of my local community, you can find me volunteering as a literacy coach, working with English language learners, keeping up to date on current events, or attending art lectures.  Or you might find me at a favorite rock concert singing the night away.

Interests: music, traveling, socializing, volunteering

Works well with: retired career widows, widows with grown children, and  caregivers 

Year of Loss: 2013

Ilene Frisher zooming in from Bayville, NY

About me:  I have 2 grandchildren that fill my heart with joy!  I am also a retired Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, active volunteer for The W connection and MJHS hospice.  I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family and wonderful friends, some of whom I met through the W connection.  

Interests: Travel, theater, golf, kayaking and I recently entered into a new loving relationship.

Works well with: widows hoping to create new lives, new friendships, and new relationships.

Year of Loss: 2014

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