For the next two episodes, we tackle a tough conversation topic - grief and its impact on children and teens. The loss of a loved one impacts every family unit, and knowing how to nurture open communication with children and teens about grief can be incredibly uncomfortable and overwhelming. In this first episode, Grief Support Specialist Shelley Kirby turns our attention to the grief we experience before a loss - called anticipatory grief - and how this type of grief can impact children and teens emotionally, physically and behaviorally. Shelley also equips us with practical conversation starters and other helpful strategies to more quickly recognize grief and support grieving children and teens in the face of impending loss and changing family dynamics.

Episode two will publish at the end of August, so be sure to tune in for the remainder of our conversation as shift our focus to the grief children and teens can experience after a loss.

Guest Bio:
Shelley Kirby, BSW, received her degree from Appalachian State University. She joined Hospice of the Piedmont and Hospice of Randolph in 2013. Over the last 12 years, she has supported numerous individuals and families in a variety of roles. As a hospice social worker Shelley supports hospice patients and families at end of life, and as a Grief Support Specialist, she provides support to grieving students in the school setting. Shelley has been married to her husband, Rodney, for 30 years, and they have two adult children.

Research article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22950336/

About The E-Series:
Presented by Hospice of the Piedmont and Hospice of Randolph, The E-Series is an educational webinar series aimed at engaging our community, exploring relevant topics and educating about ways to connect with our organization. Funding for The E-Series is provided by the Dr. John A. Lusk Fund for Hospice and Palliative Care Education. For more information about the E-Series, visit www.hospiceofthepiedmont.org.