On Thursday, November 20, CHS will observe Children’s Grief Awareness Day. It is a day to “recognize students who [have] lost loved ones,” explained Seth Roper, a social studies teacher in McGowan who organizes and is involved in the day.

Anyone can participate and show support for those suffering from grief. Students can wear “Children’s Grief Awareness Day” bracelets being distributed, tweet messages to #CGADHOPE, wear blue on Thursday, and help those dealing with the loss of loved ones.

According to Dictionary.reference.com, grief is “keen mental suffering or distress over affliction or loss.”

Johanna Jones, a guidance counselor in Swartz, said it is “one thing that ties humanity and it really can be difficult.”

According to Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt, the founder and director of the Center for Loss and Life Transition, “Children’s Grief Awareness Day allows us to advocate that any child that is old enough to love is old enough to mourn.”

A poll from the National Alliance for Grieving Children found 68% of those who have lost a loved one felt “that the death of their family member was the worst thing that ever happened to them.”

Additionally, multiple CHS students spoke out about their losses.

Senior Rachel Eicholtz said, “When I lost my parents, I found comfort in the fact that people would be aware of my grief.”

Also, senior Luke Knightstep, who lost his brother at the age of 7, said, “It is really important after these things, that you have others around you.”

Losing a loved one is inevitable. For many, it can be a painful experience when those you care about are taken from you. Those involved with Children’s Grief Awareness Day hope that as many as possible will help those suffering. Roper’s goal is “to have every single person participating in the day.”

Let us share your photos!  We will be retweeting #CGADHOPE photos throughout the day tomorrow and your photo could be featured on our website.