The worldwide non-denominational support organisation The Compassionate Friends (TCF) offers friendship and understanding to bereaved parents by connecting them with other parents on the same journey as they are.
Myrtle Fleming, TCF’s international leader, visited the Paarl and Wellington chapter for the second time since 2017. She was the guest speaker at the group’s Open Day.
“We give hope and courage to those who have suffered loss,” she said. “There’s no reward in losing your child, but be there for one another and support one another.”
TCF believes everyone grieves differently and people should take time to grieve. It also wants all bereaved parents to know that they will always be connected to the children they have lost and by supporting one another and being there they act in memory of their children.
The Paarl and Wellington chapter has been nominated to host the Compassionate Friends National Annual Gathering in 2024 in the valley.
The group has its first fundraiser, a High Tea, on 30 September 2023 at the St Alban’s Anglican church hall, Wellington.
Tickets cost R100 pp. For any bereaved parent support, queries, or sponsorship, please feel free to contact Mauleen Steenkamp on 061 841 5020 or Elizabeth Julies on 060 579 1867, or email wellingtontcf@gmail.com.
