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By Grief Counselor Jasmine Blue, M.A. A Movie Review - Remarkably Bright Creatures What happens when grief makes people feel disconnected from life, others, and even themselves...and what helps bring them back? That is the question I found myself thinking about while reflecting on the new Netflix movie, "Remarkably Bright Creatures." What makes this story so meaningful is how gently it approaches grief, loneliness, and the human need for connection. The film highlights how loss can quietly impact people in different ways while also reminding us that hope is often found in unexpected places and relationships. One thing that stood out to me is that the movie does not treat grief as something that needs to the "fixed" or "healed." Instead, it acknowledges sadness, isolation, and longing that can follow loss while still leaving room for hope, humor, purpose, and new beginnings. I appreciated how the story balanced emotional moments with warmth and lightheartedness in a way that felt comforting rather than overwhelming. The relationships throughout the movie serve as a reminder that grieving people do not always need answers or advice. Sometimes they simply need connections, understanding, and a reason to keep showing up for life. I also think the movie does a beautiful job of showing that grief can affect people of all ages, yet hope, purpose, and meaningful moments can still be experienced in every stage of life. Overall, this film felt uplifting, thoughtful, and encouraging and I hope you take some time to watch it. It reminds us that even after loss, life can still surprise us with meaningful connections, moments of joy, and reasons to move forward. Grief may become part of our story, but it does not have to be the end of it. Remember, "There's life after grief, just a different one." Questions to think about... In what ways has grief impacted my connection with others or myself? What or what has helped me continue moving forward during difficult seasons of life? What unexpected moments, people, or experiences have brought me comfort, hope, or purpose while grieving? We're here to support you - We listen. We support. We care. - Call or message us anytime! For more information, call us anytime at 833.839.1113 or send us a message at www.viahp.org/contact-form. You may also check our Grief Support Event Calendar for upcoming support group meetings near you at www.viahp.org/grief-support-event-calendar

By Grief Counselor Kerstin McMillian, M.A., LCMHCA, NCC Finding Your Way Forward: A Guide to Grief Support If you are reading this newsletter* for the first time, we know these pages can serve as a quiet, sometimes difficult reminder of your loss. Whether you are in those first disorienting months of grief or if this bulletin has become a familiar arrival in your mailbox, please know that the team at VIA Health Partners is thinking of you and your family. [*This article first appeared in the 'Bereavement Bulletin' Newsletter; a mailing offered by VIA Health Partners.] We believe grief isn't a problem to be solved or a "phase" to get over. It is a heavy weight we carry. And while you are certainly strong enough to carry it, you shouldn't have to carry it alone. "Do I need counseling?" Many of us were raised with the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality - the idea that if we are still getting our daily chores done, then we must be fine. You may feel that your situation isn't "bad enough" to warrant professional help. However, counseling isn't just for the breaking point. It is a practical tool for anyone trying to navigate a world that looks and feels very different to what it did a year ago. You might find grief counseling helpful if: Daily life feels heavy: You're finding it harder than usual to focus on routines or basic self-care. The "Busy" trap: You find yourself staying frantically active just to keep your thoughts at bay. Physical toll: Your sleep is restless, your appetite has changed, or you feel "drained" all the time. A trusted nudge: A friend or family member has gently suggested that talking to someone might help. What to Expect The hardest part of the process is picking up the phone. We try to make everything after that as comfortable and straightforward as possible. The Connection: We meet you where you are. We offer sessions in person at our offices or via a simple Telehealth video call. The Conversation: Your first hour is simply for your story. There is no "right" way to talk about your loss. Your counselor will ask a few questions to understand your relationship with your loved one and how you're managing day-to-day. The Aftermath: It's normal to feel a little tired after a session. We usually suggest planning something soothing afterwards. The Benefits of Opening Up Counseling offers a unique environment that even the best-intentioned friends and family cannot: total privacy. Companionship in your grief: Together, you'll find new ways of coping with your grief and finding clarity in what feels confusing. An Objective Perspective: It is a safe space where you can be 100% honest without worrying about "upsetting" your children or "burdening" your neighbors. No Financial Barrier: Most importantly, these services are provided at no cost to you. Grief counseling is a benefit already included in our hospice services. How Long Does Counseling Last? Counseling is on your terms. You control how often you meet and when you feel ready to stop. (up to 13 months provided by VIA Health Partners) Initial Stabilization: Many people find that weekly visits for the first two months help them feel much more grounded. Deepening Insight: Continuing for four to six months often allows for more meaningful "aha" moments and better long-term coping strategies. The 13-Month Window: We are with you. Many of our clients find it helpful to have that support through the first full cycle of holidays and anniversaries. Take the Next Step At VIA Health Partners, our team is made up of licensed professionals trained in grief work. We aren't here to "Fix" your grief, but to help you live with it. Even if you feel you are "doing okay," you deserve a space to be heard. Please reach out to us at 704.335.4300 to schedule a conversation. We're here to support you - We listen. We support. We care. - Call or message us anytime! For more information, call us anytime at 833.839.1113 or send us a message at www.viahp.org/contact-form. You may also check our Grief Support Event Calendar for upcoming support group meetings near you at www.viahp.org/grief-support-event-calendar

Below is a list of some trustworthy websites, podcasts, and YouTube Channels: www.whatsyourgrief.com This website was created by two grief professionals and authors of the book " What's Your Grief ." It offers materials and resources that cover a range of topics related to grief and loss. They also have a YouTube channel with videos and a podcast that can be found at @whatsyourgrief. You can sign up to have their newsletter delivered to your email inbox. www.refugeingrief.com Megan Devine wrote the book " It's OK That You're Not OK ." Megan's husband died tragically, and she writes about the raw, messy side of grief; as well as the beauty and joy that can exist alongside that. On her website, you will find articles and videos about coping in grief. You can also sign up for her newsletter or listen to her podcast. www.katebowler.com Kate Bowler is a Duke University professor, author, and podcaster that challenges toxic positivity and offers resources for navigating life's difficulties. Her website provides a community-focused platform with podcasts, articles, and support guides to help people navigate hard times, especially grief. Other good websites: www.grief.com www.hospicefoundation.org   We're here to support you - We listen . We support . We care . - Call or message us anytime! For more information, call us anytime at 833.839.1113  or send us a message at www.viahp.org/contact-form . You may also check our Grief Support Event Calendar for upcoming support group meetings near you at www.viahp.org/grief-support-event-calendar

View the Grief Support Event Calendar at VIA Health Partners. Find upcoming events and programs designed to provide support and healing for those navigating grief. Join us for... Memory Bear & Pillow Workshops July, August, & September 2026 View Event Calendar >> Hover your cursor to pause slider... June 2026 Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 31 1 2 3 4 5 7:30 AM Chameleon's Journey Spring Day Camp - Shelby, NC 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10:00 AM Summer Book Study: "How to Carry What Can't Be Fixed" by Megan Devine 2:00 PM Melodies of Healing - Music Therapy for Grief - Fort Mill, SC 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 10:00 AM Summer Book Study: "How to Carry What Can't Be Fixed" by Megan Devine 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 10:00 AM Summer Book Study: "How to Carry What Can't Be Fixed" by Megan Devine 1:00 PM In Good Company - Burke / McDowell Counties, NC 3 4 5 6 5:00 PM Reflections Spousal Loss - Cleveland County, NC 7 10:00 AM "Coffee & Connections" - Greenville, SC 2:00 PM Sips & Support Circle - Fort Mill, SC 5:00 PM In Good Company: Spousal Loss Support Group - Burke / McDowell Counties, NC (1) 8 8:30 AM In Good Company - Laurens County, SC 9 10:00 AM Summer Book Study: "How to Carry What Can't Be Fixed" by Megan Devine 10:30 AM Reflections Sharing Group - Cleveland County, NC 11:00 AM Expressions of Grief Workshop - Charlotte, NC +2 more 10 11 Multiple Dates Summer Book Study: "How to Carry What Can't Be Fixed" by Megan Devine Jun 25, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM VIA Health Partners - Charlotte Office, 7600 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates In Good Company - Burke / McDowell Counties, NC Jul 02, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Grace Ridge Retirement Community, 500 Lenoir Rd, Morganton, NC 28655, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Reflections Spousal Loss - Cleveland County, NC Jul 06, 2026, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM VIA Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Dr, Shelby, NC 28150, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates "Coffee & Connections" - Greenville, SC Jul 07, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Crossroads 4 Coffee and Tea, 112 E Standing Springs Rd, Simpsonville, SC 29680, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Sips & Support Circle - Fort Mill, SC Jul 07, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Contact Naomi for location details. More info Learn more Multiple Dates In Good Company: Spousal Loss Support Group - Burke / McDowell Counties, NC (1) Jul 07, 2026, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Burke County City Hall Bldg - Ste 130A, 305 E Union St, Morganton, NC 28655, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates In Good Company - Laurens County, SC Jul 08, 2026, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM Bojangles, 310 Springdale Dr, Clinton, SC 29325, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Reflections Sharing Group - Cleveland County, NC Jul 09, 2026, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM VIA Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Dr, Shelby, NC 28150, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Expressions of Grief Workshop - Charlotte, NC Jul 09, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM VIA Health Partners - Charlotte Office, 7600 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates General Grief Support Group - Columbia, SC Jul 09, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM VIA Health Partners - Columbia, SC, 2180 Boyce St, Suite B, Columbia, SC 29207, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Moving Through Loss - Laurens County, SC Jul 09, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM VIA Health Partners, 1304 Springdale Dr, Clinton, SC 29325, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Loss of Partner/Significant Other for Retired Individuals - Charlotte, NC Jul 13, 2026, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM VIA Health Partners - Charlotte Office, 7600 Little Ave, Charlotte, NC 28226, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates General Grief Group - Laurens County, SC Jul 13, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM Ora ARP Church, 23424 Hwy 221, Gray Court, SC More info Learn more Multiple Dates "Coffee & Connections" - Lake Norman, NC Jul 14, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Kunu Coffee Co, 8519 Gilead Rd, Huntersville, NC 28078, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates General Grief Support Group - Greenville, SC Jul 15, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Barclay at Patrick Square, 100 Pershing Ave, Clemson, SC 29631, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Reflections Adult Child Loss - Cleveland County, NC Jul 17, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM VIA Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Dr, Shelby, NC 28150, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates "Exercise Your Grieving Heart" Weekly Walking Grief Support Group - Laurens County, SC Jul 20, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM Presbyterian College Softball Field, 503 S Broad St, Clinton, SC 29325, USA More info Learn more Multiple Dates Memory Bear & Pillow Workshop - Cleveland County, NC Jul 21, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM VIA Health Partners, 951 Wendover Heights Dr, Shelby, NC 28150, USA More info Learn more Load More

VIA Health Partners promises to provide exceptional hospice and palliative care, to guide you and your family on this journey, and to respect your choices. Your comfort, needs, and wishes come first. You can count on us - where you need us and when you need us. ​ That is our promise. supporting you on this journey... ...grief support Grief is a normal, natural response to the loss of someone or something important. It is unique to the person experiencing it and is as individual as the relationship that brought it about. Because of this uniqueness and individuality, there is no set timetable for how a person goes through the process. Likewise, what is helpful for some people may not be helpful for others. Refer Yourself or Loved One Request More Information Types of Grief How we help Counseling Support Groups Community Services Grief Resources Grief Support Event Calendar More Available 24/7 • 365 Days a Year • Call Us Anytime: 833.839.1113 Type of Grief Types of Grief We listen. We support. We care... Grief comes at different points along the journey of loss, but the primary points are the period that begins at diagnosis and the period that begins at the death of a loved one. From the point of diagnosis to death, there are two types of grief: preparatory and anticipatory . Preparatory Grief is experienced by the person who is ill as they grieve the loss of their health, independence, and the shortened time they will have with others. Anticipatory Grief is experienced by family and friends as they struggle with thoughts and feelings surrounding the impending loss of their loved one. In the hospice and palliative care settings, these losses are typically processed with social workers and/or chaplains who are specifically trained to deal with these experiences. Once death has occurred, feelings, thoughts, physical reactions, and other aspects of grief can make adjustment difficult, and carrying out basic activities may seem harder. Family, friends, and other people you know and trust may have difficulty sharing in your grief or they may be struggling with the loss themselves. That’s when the grief care services of VIA Health Partners can be so important. We listen. We support. We care. It is our goal to provide grief care services that address individual needs and situations, because everyone experiences grief in their own way, and on their own timetable. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: Grief Resour ces >> Youth Grief Resources >> Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Website >> Grief Support Event Calendar >> How we help How we help Grief is a process that takes time... We offer the following services through our Grief Support Program: Programs for all age groups - children, older teens, adults, and senior adults Short-term individual counseling, including referrals for more intensive therapy when appropriate Support groups (both on-going and time-limited) that are educational and supportive in nature Educational, one-session workshops for those who want to learn more about coping with their grief Chameleon's Journey , an overnight grief camp for children ages 7 - 17 Workplace grief services including Critical Incident Stress Management Grief has a direct impact on many aspects of an individual’s life, including job performance, personal relationships, and other aspects of well-being. Grief is a process that is not completed in a finite period of time. Therefore, VIA Health Partners extends support to family members and other loved ones both before and after death. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: VIA Health Partners Service Area >> VIA Health Partners Office Locations >> Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Website >> Chameleon's Journey Upcoming Events >> Chameleon's Journey Camper Registration Form Request >> Online Contact Form >> Grief Support Event Calendar >> Counseling Counseling A safe environ ment... Our staff of professional counselors has a wide range of experience in grief counseling. All hold professional licenses and/or certifications and have degrees covering social work, counseling, and divinity. Counseling for adults, children and teens is available throughout our 49-county service area. Our grief counselors create a safe environment for individuals who are adjusting to a significant loss. If you have survived the loss of a loved one, we can help you discover, or rediscover, inner resources that will promote healing and help you define a meaningful future. Individual counseling. . . Talking one-on-one with a grief counselor helps to make sense of the grief process. The way in which a person grieves is unique to that person. Having a grief counselor to help you work through your emotions and thoughts about your loved one, share your memories, and discuss adjustments to life is healthy; it helps you recognize that what you are going through, though painful, is a natural life experience. We employ a beneficial perspective that is based on the following principles: Pain and loss are a natural part of life and grieving is a healthy way of taking care of ourselves. Grieving persons have the right and responsibility to grieve in their own way, to interpret their loss, to make choices that are right for them, and to determine the quality and direction for their lives. Everyone is respected and encouraged to honor their diverse values and traditions. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: VIA Health Partners Service Area >> VIA Health Partners Office Locations >> Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Website >> Grief Support Event Calendar >> Support Groups Support Groups Structured Grief Support Groups Grief: The Reluctant Journey is a structured grief support group that meets for a defined length of time, usually 6 – 8 weeks. The support group allows group members a safe environment to experience empathetic support and a place where social isolation and feelings of loneliness are diminished. Groups specific to spousal/partner loss, adult parent loss, adult child loss, young widow/widower, mature widower loss, and child loss may also be offered. A pre-group interview with a grief counselor is required for members of structured grief groups. Please contact us for more information. "In Good Company" Monthly Drop-ins If you are interested in a more relaxed, informal group setting, come to one of our "In Good Company" support groups . We offer camaraderie and an opportunity to check in with a grief counselor (and others) to share the highs and lows common to the experience of people who are grieving. We have groups that meet monthly throughout our service area. Please contact us for more information. In School Grief Groups School personnel are encouraged to contact us with requests for in-school grief support groups. Groups are offered at school during regular school hours over a period of several sessions. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: VIA Health Partners Service Area >> VIA Health Partners Office Locations >> Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Website >> Grief Support Event Calendar >> Community Services Community Services Supporting the Community Acknowledging that grief is difficult for everyone, regardless of the circumstance, VIA Health Partners offers grief care to everyone in the communities we serve. In other words, we not only care for the family members of patients under our care, but we will offer our services free of charge to anyone who is struggling with loss. Any individual in our service area may sign up for our grief support groups or workshops, or contact a counselor for additional assistance. Memorial Services Remembering those we love and have passed away is an important part of individual and family identity. Attending a memorial service is healing, connects the present with the past, and continues the bond of a loving relationship. Each year, family survivors and community members receive invitations for our Light Up a Life interfaith memorial services held throughout our 49-county service area. Check our calendar of events for dates and times. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: VIA Health Partners Service Area >> VIA Health Partners Office Locations >> Chameleon's Journey Grief Camp Website >> Light Up A Life Seasonal Celebration >> Memorial Events & Celebrations >> Grief Resources Grief Resources Bereavement Bulletins We offer multiple resources for individuals struggling with loss. Each year, we publish four newsletters (Bereavement Bulletins) that touch on various grief topics and offer tips and advice to families mourning the loss of a loved one. You can view our most recent issues below. Call us at 833.839.1113 for more information. More resources: Online Grief Resources >> Online Youth Grief Resources >> Bereavement Bulletin - Current Issue Archived Editions Bereavement Bulletin - Summer 2026 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Winter 2026 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Fall 2025 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Summer 2025 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Spring 2025 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Winter 2024 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Fall 2024 Read this issue >> Bereavement Bulletin - Summer 2024 Read this issue >>

VIA Health Partners promises to provide exceptional hospice and palliative care, to guide you and your family on this journey, and to respect your choices. Your comfort, needs, and wishes come first. You can count on us - where you need us and when you need us. ​ That is our promise. Home-Based Primary Care Compassionate care, right at home. Equity Health offers personalized home-based primary care services - bringing quality healthcare to you. Learn more... providing exceptional care since 1978 Services Operating since 1978, we are a non-profit specialized in providing end-of-life care to 49 counties across North and South Carolina. View Office Locations >> View Hospice House Locations >> View Palliative Care Clinics >> hospice care in a peaceful, home-like setting ...inpatient care The comfort of our patients is our top concern and that is why we offer hospice care wherever a patient calls home. But for instances where acute, around-the-clock care is needed, our 6 hospice houses allow for comfortable care in a peaceful, home-like setting. Learn more about our Hospice Houses compassionate end-of-life care ...hospice care Hospice is comfort-oriented care focused on quality of life for patients with a diagnosis of months, weeks, or days to live. We will bring our care to you, whether in the home, assisted living community, long term care community, or hospital. Learn more about Hospice Care support & enhanced quality of life ...palliative care Palliative care helps those living with a serious illness maintain their quality of life while also providing support to family and loved ones. Learn more about Palliative Care tailored treatment for a unique diagnosis ...specialty care We believe that each patient under our care deserves focused, tailored treatment designed to alleviate pain and symptoms unique to their diagnosis. Dementia Care Program >> Pediatric Care Program >> Veteran Care Program >> supporting you on this journey ...grief support Grief is a normal, natural response to the loss of someone or something important. It is unique to the person experiencing it and is as individual as the relationship that brought it about. Because of this uniqueness and individuality, there is no set timetable for how a person goes through the process. Likewise, what is helpful for some people may not be helpful for others. Learn more about Grief Support