Grief is a natural response to loss. It is the painful process of life change when someone you love is dying or has died. As you work to find new meaning in a world without the physical presence of your loved one, our bereavement services offer you assistance and support. These programs offer a safe space for all individuals regardless of age, race, creed, disability, family and marital status, gender identity, gender expression, receipt of public assistance, record of offences, sex, or sexual orientation.

Click on the Services below to find out more.

Adult Aged Child Loss Support Group

Anticipatory Grief Support

Though we think of grief as something that happens after a death, it often begins long before death arrives. Once death is on the horizon, even just as a possibility, it is natural that we begin to grieve. Anticipatory grief support offers assistance to individuals who are facing the impending loss of a loved one.

Bereavement Support Group

‘Navigating the Wilderness of Grief’ is an 8-week bereavement support group that provides an opportunity for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, to learn from and share with others as they move through their grief journey.

Child Loss Support Group

Coffee and Care

A weekly group that provides individuals who are dealing with the loss of a loved one with an opportunity to meet and share with others who are also grieving. This group has something for all, regardless of experiences or identity.

*If you are interested in attending this group, or for more information, please contact us at 705-325-0505 or by email louise@hospiceorillia.ca

Community Lending Library

Hospice Orillia has a selection of books and videos pertaining to bereavement, including books for children of all ages. These items can be borrowed on a one-month basis and are available to everyone in our community.

For more information, contact us at louise@hospiceorillia.ca or call 705-325-0505 ext.209

Equine Therapy Bereavement Support Group

This six-week course allows the participants a safe and compassionate space to grow through their grief. This peer support group is led by professionally trained Hospice Volunteers, under the watchful eye of the Horse Trainer. The therapy happens as the horses work their magic and allow the participants to become empowered as they groom, walk, care and sometimes work up to riding to them. The program allows for growth in the following areas:

Adaptability
Confidence and Self-esteem
Developing and Maintaining Relationships
Emotional Awareness
Empathy Towards Others
Independence
Trust in Others
Trust in Self
Social Skills

The Equine Therapy Group is limited in space and is provided to clients on an invitation bases upon completion of their intake meeting with our Bereavement Services Coordinator.

Grief Support Walking Group

Are you adjusting to life without your loved one? Would you like to meet new people on a similar journey and engage in mutual support and acceptance? Please email louise@hospiceorillia.ca for more information.

Memorial Events

Each year, Hospice Orillia hosts two memorial events; Garden of Remembrance and Candles of Remembrance. Each of the events is unique in its own way providing community members the opportunity to come together to remember those no longer with us.

The Garden of Remembrance takes place in June of each year; whereas Candles of Remembrance takes place in December of each year. While we have seen a shift in how these events are presented over the years, one steadfast thing is our community commitment to surrounding each other with love and comfort during this difficult time.

One-on-One Support

These custom sessions involve up to 4 meetings with a trained Hospice Orillia volunteer to explore grief on a personal as well as universal level. Volunteers are also available for community and home visits.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support

Click for Additional Supports

Support Group for Overdose Related Losses

Have you experienced an overdose related loss of a loved one? Are you are looking for a safe, supportive environment to share with others on a similar journey?

We now offer sessions for those going through grieving related to overdose, please contact us today to find out more.

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Grief is a normal reaction to the loss of a loved one. It can also be a reaction to the loss of relationships, physical ability, opportunities or future hopes and dreams.

Bereavement is the state of having suffered the loss of a loved one. It is the time after a loss during which grief is experienced and mourning occurs.

Mourning is the external expression of grief. It includes rituals that mark someone’s death, such as funerals, wakes or memorial services. Mourning is strongly influenced by a person’s spiritual and cultural beliefs and practices.

Hospice Orillia is committed to creating and maintaining an environment free of discrimination. All individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and have equal opportunities. Our programs, services and opportunities will be accessible regardless of age, ancestry, colour, race, citizenship, ethnic origin, place of origin, creed, disability, family status, marital status, gender identity, gender expression, receipt of public assistance, record of offences, sex, or sexual orientation. We always provide a positive space to our clients, volunteers, and staff.