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Support & Bereavement Programs
Psychosocial support does not end if the patient dies. The staff establish an ongoing relationship with the family, so they can help with funeral arrangements, offer bereavement support groups, and help families with the knowledge that their child, although no longer physically present, is still a part of the family.
Working closely with chaplains to meet the needs of families is critically important to comprehensive care for children and families.
The Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) uses a bereavement program called RTS, a national organization founded in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, which offers training for professionals to aid parents and families during and after the loss of an infant, stillborn or a miscarriage.
The main goal of the program is to create memories to last a lifetime for the parents.
- We use memory boxes to hold clothing, toys and hand or footprints of the infant.
- Castings of the hand or foot may also be made.
- Twelve photos of the infant are taken and the film given to the parents.
- Crib pictures are given to the parents at no charge.
- Reading materials are provided upon request.
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Ele's Place is a nonprofit community-based organization dedicated to creating awareness of and support for grieving children and their families.
Ele's Place provides a safe atmosphere where healing can take place following the loss of a family member or important friend. Sparrow Health System has been instrumental in supporting Ele's Place since its inception in 1991.
For more information about Ele's Place, call 517.482.1315 or visit www.elesplace.org.
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