Group helps with loss during holidays

Staff report

Those who have lost a loved one recently are invited to attend a free event to help heal during the holidays.

Finding Light and Hope During the Holidays is an event that takes place each year through Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes.

Sister Pat Fesler, an after-care companion, specializes in helping people deal with the death of family and friends.

“This can be a very difficult, very challenging time for them,” Sister Fesler said. “We give them some ideas on how to get through this difficult time.”

During the event, which draws about 65 adults each year, Sister Fesler talks to the group about holiday traditions they shared with loved ones and how to cherish their memory during the season. Refreshments are served afterward while guests mingle.

Sister Fesler encourages people to come to the event to address their feelings.

“People are so afraid to come,” she said. “They’re afraid to face what’s going on inside of them because when we have somebody die, it’s not uncommon for other losses to come up from the past. A lot of people tell me they’ve found the program very helpful.”

This year’s meeting will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Boardman/Canfield Chapel at 3701 Starr Centre Drive in Canfield.

RSVP for the event by calling Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes at 330-792-2353.