JD Foundation to host weekend retreat for women affected by suicide

DOVER-FOXCROFT — The JD Foundation focuses on suicide prevention and healing care through various programs. The newest organization program “A Journey Through Grief” is a Sept. 16-18 weekend retreat for women who have lost a loved one to suicide.

This program became possible due to a grant received through the Piscataquis County Fund of the Maine Community Foundation. The grant funds will offset the cost to attend for those participants who meet certain income guidelines.

The Friday through Sunday retreat will include shared accommodations at the Freedom House Bed & Breakfast, meals, and the option to participate in Reiki, Polaridy, Reflexology, massage, artistic creative play, a guided nature walk and more.

When a loved one is lost to suicide, those left behind may deal with more complicated feelings that may not necessarily occur with other types of loss, such as shame or guilt. This retreat will help participants by providing natural approaches and shared experiences. It will help form bonds for those that feel alone in their grief by meeting others who truly understand the pain and sadness they are experiencing. The JD Foundation will also provide techniques the participants can take with them after they leave the comfort of the retreat.

For those interested in determining income eligibility, applications can be found at www.piscataquischamber.com/documents/. The retreat brochure/registration form and other assessment forms are also available at this link.

For more information, please contact Cheryl Morin at 876-2295 or thejdfoundation@yahoo.com.