11/8/2023

The joy of the holiday season can be marked by sadness for those with loved ones who have passed away. Remembering our loved ones and including them in our observances keeps them alive in our hearts and celebrates their legacy that continues to live on.

11/1/2023 In recognition of Children's Grief Awareness Month this November, the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program is joining other members of the National Alliance for Children’s Grief to "flip the script" on grief. Throughout the month, we are collectively committed to providing essential tools and resources aimed at fostering a more grief-informed society. This initiative seeks to address the common challenges people face when supporting those who are grieving, aiming to replace potentially hurtful statements or silence with comforting and constructive responses. Additionally, the Healing Patch invites the community to get involved by wearing blue on Children’s Grief Awareness Day, Nov. 16.

10/3/2023 Family Hospice, Part of UPMC, is pleased to offer a live webinar featuring world-renowned author and grief educator, Dr. Alan Wolfelt. Offered in partnership with Stevens Family Funeral Home, this webinar is titled “Understanding Your Grief: Touchstones for Hope and Healing” and will be held on Wed., Nov. 29 from 5-8 p.m. at UPMC Altoona. A virtual option is also available.

8/8/2023 Family Hospice, Part of UPMC, is offering free grief support options this fall throughout West Central Pennsylvania.

5/26/2023 Robert Brandt held the winning number – 791 – for Home Nursing Agency Foundation’s Mercedes Moment fundraiser held on May 25.  

4/14/2023 Join us for an evening of prizes and music to benefit grieving children and their families! The Decades Club will be held at the Blair County Convention Center, Altoona on Saturday, September 30.

4/12/2023 April is Volunteer Recognition Month! We are grateful for the commitment of those who volunteer with the Healing Patch Children's Grief Program and Family Hospice.

3/21/2023 After losing her son Nicholas unexpectedly last March, Dena (Foreman) Karabinos wanted to honor his life and make a difference. The first annual Nicholas Foreman Memorial Benefit Pool Tournament on Feb. 11 at the Shovel Head Tavern in Cresson raised nearly $9,500 to benefit the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program.

2/9/2023 As the number of families impacted by overdose death continues to grow, the Healing Patch Children’s Grief Program is hosting a free in-person training on how to support these grieving children and families on Tues., March 21 from 1-4:30 p.m. at the UPMC Home Healthcare office, 20 Sheraton Dr., Altoona. The training will include the National Alliance for Children’s Grief live webcast on “Supporting Children and Families Following an Overdose Death” with a Q&A to follow.