Grieving Families Invited to Day of Outdoor Healing

Hospice of the North Coast (HNC) invites children and families grieving the loss of a loved one to attend its annual Healing Outdoor Play Experience known as Camp H.O.P.E. on August 3, 2013 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Green Oak Ranch in Vista.

The retreat provides therapeutic activities in a fun and nurturing environment specifically aimed at helping grieving children seven years of age and older find their way to a new normal. As a family event, it also guides adults in how to take care of themselves while caring for their children during this challenging time.

Activities include therapy dogs, a petting corral, hayrides, yoga, expressive arts, massage and a drumming circle. The day of fun and inspiration culminates with a ceremonial tree planting that serves as a poignant memorial to loved ones and a symbol of the continuation of life’s journey. 

The $50 per family registration fee covers all activities and food as well as a commemorative t-shirt. The Camp is offered free to military families. Scholarships are available to qualifying families. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.hospicenorthcoast.org or call 760-431-4100 to register.

Director of Bereavement Ti Johnson says children can feel overwhelmed and isolated by the death of a family member. “We structure Camp H.O.P.E. to address children’s special needs and enable them to interact with humans and animals in a warm and friendly way. Just having a dog to hug can do wonders for the healing process,” she believes.

Camper-turned-volunteer Brianna Ortiz confides, “I was just nine when I lost my dad in 2001. Camp H.O.P.E. was wonderful for me. I connected instantly with other kids in the same situation. We understood what each of us was going through. That experience enabled me as a volunteer to connect with campers and help them connect with each other.”

Camp H.O.P.E. is supported by HNC’s 2013 Hope Bereavement Center title sponsor, Eternal Hills Memorial Park, Mortuary and Crematory FD234, as well as by AKT Certified Public Accountants, Oceanside Civitan and Kiwanis Club of Oceanside Pacific. Other sponsors/donations are welcomed.

–Hospice of the North Coast press release