Compassionate Friends balloon launch of memory planned for August 17

SIDNEY -- The Sidney Chapter of Compassionate Friends is hosting a balloon launch on August 17.

The balloon launch is held for families who have lost loved ones. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. at the pavilion in Legion Park with a potluck dinner. The balloon launch is an opportunity for families to remember those they have lost.

Compassionate Friends is an organization focused on offering support to families who have lost children. However, the Sidney chapter is open to anyone who has experienced loss.

Compassionate Friends is an association of parents, families, who have lost children. While the focus is on the bond between parents and children, anyone who is grieving is welcome. For more information, or if you would like to meet, contact Forrest at 970-580-8998. To find out more about Compassionate Friends, see  www.compassionatefriends.org.

 About Compassionate Friends: When your child has died, suddenly it seems like all meaning has been drained from your life. When you wake in the morning, it’s difficult to get out of bed, much less live a “normal” life. All that was right with the world now seems wrong and you’re wondering when, or if, you’ll ever feel better.

We’ve been there ourselves and understand some of the pain you are feeling right now. We are truly glad that you have found us but profoundly saddened by the reason. We know that you are trying to find your way in a bewildering experience for which no one can truly be prepared.

When you’re newly bereaved, suddenly you find yourself on an emotional roller-coaster where you have no idea what to expect next. Here are thoughts on some of what you may be experiencing or feeling (many of these will apply to bereaved siblings and grandparents.