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

Our topic this month is: "Self Compassion: Treating Ourselves with Kindness, Support and Awareness"

As widows struggling to find our own ways forward, we know the importance of having a supportive and compassionate circle around us. (It's why we are all W Connection members!)

But do we know the importance of SELF-compassion during this healing process? The research is out there, and truly confirming. There are significant benefits to being a supportive friend to yourself, especially in times of needs.

We will discuss how to give ourselves the same kindness and care that we would offer to a good friend who is suffering, including a level of awareness about what we are truly feeling and how best to find the support and understanding we need.

You will leave this meeting knowing that "I am worth it"!

In preparation for these meetings, our Topic Committee volunteers suggest that you bring paper and pen to the meetings. In addition, they suggest the following articles:

The Wonders of Self Compassion

The Three Elements of Self-Compassion

What is Self-Care and Why is it so Important to your Health?

Or, you can listen to Dawn's Video on the topic, here

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