VOICES Founding Director Mary Fetchet was recently featured in the CNN article A Force For Change: Coping with Grief Through Activism and Advocacy. Mary shared her personal story of finding meaning in tragedy.
As the holiday season approaches and we gather with family and friends, we remember those who are no longer with us. Often times family traditions change after a loss, and we find new ways to celebrate the holidays and keep the memory of our loved ones alive. Personally, I have always found great joy in decorating for the Christmas season.
Every tragedy, big or small, leaves behind victims and loved ones whose lives are inalterably changed. In some cases, survivors find themselves driven to become activists or advocates, finding meaning in the tragedy by fighting whatever caused it. There are many examples making headlines all over the country. Chris Hurst was an evening news anchor at WDBJ in Roanoke, Virginia, when his girlfriend, Alison Parker, a reporter, and her cameraman, Adam Ward, were shot and killed during a live interview one morning in August 2015.-
Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month? Family and friends play a critical role in assisting survivors and responders who have been diagnosed with 9/11 related illnesses. For some, the responsibility of caregiving can be challenging. It is important that we all have the support we need to sustain the day-to-day requirements of helping others.
- Caregiving is a very difficult situation for a family member and one of the main challenges is staying connected and obtaining support during caregiving duties. You are not alone. The following resources provide information and support.