A bereavement support pilot project was successfully completed following a collaboration between Karl Vella Foundation (KVF), The Malta Community Chest Fund Foundation (MCCF) and the Franciscans Conventuals.
This success has led to the launching of a further two programmes.
‘Life Beyond Loss’, consists of 12 sessions led by professional bereavement therapists for two separate groups: those who have suffered the loss of a partner and parents who suffered the loss of a child. Spiritual directors are present throughout the sessions. Children of families attending both groups are also offered support by mental health professionals.
The idea to hold bereavement support groups started last summer while Claire Chircop (co-founder and chair of KVF), was in the UK undergoing a bone marrow transplant. During her time there, she met Fr Mario Sant OFM Conv. and Fr Joseph Formosa OFM Conv. who dedicate their lives to supporting patients and relatives/caregivers in the UK. They shared with her their concern about those families who lose their loved ones while in the UK. These initial conversations led KVF, the Franciscan Friars, and MCCF to work together and launch ‘Life Beyond Loss’.
The project was extended to all Maltese residents (not necessarily those whose family members received treatment in the UK) who suffered a loss of a partner or a child. The Franciscans Conventuals kindly hosted the participants of the pilot project at their convent in Rabat.
Participants in the pilot programme have given very positive feedback: “We found a lot of love. We learned a lot, laughed, and cried a lot. We found ourselves but we think that what we found most was sincere friendship and love.” Several participants mentioned that it was a great help to be able to open up with people who have been through the same loss. The children taking part in the programme also spoke about this. “During these meetings, I made new friends and I used to enjoy talking and playing with other children going through the same situation.” For some adult
participants, it was the first time that they could express their true feelings without being judged. The professional approach of the therapists was greatly appreciated and permitted participants to finally start dealing with their loss. One participant expressed this eloquently: “I’ve learned how to let my son rest in peace”.
Participants said that they also valued the spiritual guidance provided by the
Franciscan Conventuals – “I admit that after what happened to us, I still feel estranged from God, but the fact that the priest listened to us and adopted a non-judgemental attitude helped me make a step forward”.
The two new Life Beyond Loss programmes will be held in two separate localities, Attard and Qawra, starting November. These programmes are offered free of charge.
Registration link: https://bit.ly/3QG0GZJ
For further information contact KVF on lifebeyondloss2022@gmail.com or on 21237928.
