NORWICH – There is a special place in every child’s heart for his or her Mother, whether that child is five or fifty-five. Mother’s Day is supposed to be a day of celebration, a day to thank Mom for her years of love and care. It is also the day when phone usage is at its highest, and the busiest day of the year for restaurants. However, that day can be painful for those whose mothers have passed away. “Everyone grieves differently,” acknowledges, Brenda Birdsall, Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County’s Bereavement Coordinator. “Some people may chose to isolate themselves on Mother’s Day, pushing memories aside because those thoughts still feel like an emotional bruise that needs time to heal; while other people want to celebrate like they did for years, but don’t know exactly what to do.” Birdsall has planned just such an event for mother-less adults who want to remember Mom in a meaningful way.
Birdsall is inviting residents of Chenango County to join her at a very special breakfast to honor mothers who are no longer present in body, but certainly are in spirit. The breakfast will take place on Saturday, May 2nd at 9:30am at Fred’s Inn in Norwich. “I hope that this gathering will give individuals the chance to remember their mothers and share poignant memories with the group.” She was also quick to say that some individuals may simply want to come and enjoy the company of others without talking. “I know many people are reluctant to speak in front of others, and I want everyone to feel comfortable, so if you want to come and eat with the group, but silently honor your Mother, that’s perfectly fine.” Although, she does encourage attendees to bring a photo of their Mom to share with others. The all-inclusive breakfast is just $8 a person and Hospice should be contacted by Tuesday, April 28 if you’d like to attend.
Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County is a non-profit health care agency that takes care of people in the final months, weeks, or days of life with many diagnoses, and regardless of the ability to pay. Patients are treated at home, in a nursing home or a hospital room depending on personal circumstances. Bereavement services are offered to family and loved ones for more than a year following a death. Birdsall coordinates a number of different support groups throughout the year, and is available for personal consultation. The group meetings are free and open to all, no prior involvement with Hospice is required. For information about Hospice services or to reserve your spot at their Mothers Memory Breakfast call 334-3556.