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"Bridges for Healing Hearts" is a grief support group that is being facilitated by HSHS Hospice Southern Illinois Bereavement Counselor Maddie Johnson. It is a year-round, open enrollment group with no reservation or set attendance required. Those who are enrolled in the Healing the Grieving Heart Program are welcome to attend this group as well.

The group will meet in the St. Francis room at HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital on the first Thursday of every month. The next session is scheduled for August 4. Attendees will have a choice between the afternoon group, which will meet from 2-3:30 p.m., and the evening group, which will meet from 7-8:30 p.m.

While grief can feel very overwhelming, it can also bring opportunities for new growth and healing. The support group will be there to help those who have suffered the loss of a loved one adjust to the transition period. The goal will be to create a safe space where attendees are free to express their true thoughts with friends who understand the struggle. "Bridges for Healing Hearts" is a place to start the journey towards healing.

For more information, contact Maddie Johnson, MS, NCC, LPC, Bereavement Counselor, at 347-1571 or email Maddie.Johnson@hshs.org or visit St. Anthony's Web site at stanthonyshospital.org. Hospice services are provided at all the hospitals in the Southern Illinois Division of Hospital Sisters Health System, which includes HSHS St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital in Effingham, HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Belleville, HSHS Holy Family Hosp