Some years ago, I met a woman named Stephy Hardman Kaminoff. Stephy had been recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Even with this tragic loss confronting her, knowing that she would eventually lose her life, not to mention the thought of leaving her three precious children behind, she had a resolve that was amazing. She made me believe that she might be the “one” to beat this disease.

 

After meeting Stephy, I was moved by the devastating loss that she knew her passing would create. Several years prior I had lost my husband to the horrific events of September 11th and my loss seemed to pale in comparison to what Stephy was experiencing. Stephy’s grief was unimaginable. I reflected on how lucky I was to have had the support of our “New Life Support Group” and how we had a place to go. The upper room at Holy Cross became “Our Place" where we would meet Tuesday mornings at 9:30. This was a place where we felt safe. I was determined that someday, with the help of my friends from our New Life Support Group, we would provide a place for people who are grieving. People who are suffering from loss, any loss. They too, would have a Place.

On April 2, 2014 Stephy passed on, leaving her three children in the care of her wonderful sisters.

 

In the Spring of 2015, I brought Stephy’s story to our New Life Support Group, where I expressed my desire to open a place for all who suffer the loss of a loved one, and I wanted their help. There was no hesitation. We would start this endeavor. Stephy’s Place: A New Life Support Center for Grief and Loss officially opened September 1, 2015. At Stephy's Place, we offer Support Groups and mindful meditation free of charge.

 

For more information or to get involved, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook.