Community Health Charities of Florida - November 2011

Hospice does not only serve patients near the end of their life, but also those affected by a death.

My Son, David William Burns was born to us in Plantation, Florida on Monday, September 11, 1972 in the afternoon. David left this world early on Friday, July 02, 2004 at the young age of 31.

It was about three years after the unexpected death of my 31 year old son. First his birthday, then mine, and Halloween, Thanksgiving, and now Christmas was coming quick. I was a mess. I couldn’t stop crying. It felt like with each approaching holiday and year it was worse. A friend suggested I seek counseling. I had already been to about 7 different people with no help what-so-ever.

A “Facebook” mom, who was also a grieving the loss of a child, said seek help from Hospice. I didn’t give it much thought until again a co-worker said call them. So I did. I received 6 free sessions and attended several group meetings on “Dealing with a Loss during the Holidays.” It was perfect. I finally felt that the person I was talking to at Hospice understood my grief. She seemed to know the questions to ask and gave me ideas and things to ponder. Christmas was still full of painful memories of the child missing but I didn’t completely fall apart and have terrible thoughts in my head.

This December will be the 7^th Christmas without our son. It is extremely difficult but I recall the little tips and exercises that the Hospice counselor gave me so I can make it through the day and try to enjoy the time with my husband and daughter.

David always thought of other people's feeling first, was generous to a fault and kind to all. Most of all, he was a terrific son, and wonderful brother. We will all remember him forever. 

Story shared by Lydia Burns - Tallahassee, Florida.

To learn more about Hospice, please visit Florida Hospices & Palliative Care at www.floridahospices.org or visit
The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) at www.nhpco.org.

November is National Hospice & Palliative Care Awareness Month. Learn More.