Hi! I'm Mel. I am a retired social worker and hospice bereavement coordinator.
Grieving children are my passion.
My grandma who lived with us died when I was four years old. My brother was killed when I was twelve. My father died when I was sixteen. My kids were grieving kids. Their oldest brother died of a brain tumor when they were five and ten. That was in 1983. Now I use my own experiences to equip other caring adults to effectively work with grieving kids. It is estimated by JAMA Pediatrics that over 140,000 children in the US have lost a caregiver to COVID-19. This includes the children who were being raised by grandparents or relatives. The need is great. I believe with education and support, caring adults can be equipped make a positive difference in these children's lives. My books and this website are a starting point. Will you help?
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She co-authored Teen Talk, An 8-week Curriculum for Grieving Teenagers. She wrote the ‘Our Story’ memory book as a tool to help children process their grief. As a presenter she has spoken and offered training internationally. She has coordinated the GriefShare ministry at her church and more recently has returned to her passion of working with grieving youth. The Kid Talk Faith-Based Curriculum is the culmination of over 30 years of training and experience working with grieving children in both schools and private settings. It continues to evolve with every new group of kids.
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Mel and her husband have lived in Tacoma, WA since 1976. Adult children and two adorable grandchildren enrich their lives.