Help and encouragement therapeutic for Witpoortjie support group
The group meets once a month at different venues and the next meeting will be on February 11 at Ramkiki Restaurant, Conferences and Weddings in Ruimsig.
Losing a child is devastating but having the peer support from other parents who understand is lifesaving.
After losing her son in 2016, without any warning, and without any signs of illness other than a sudden headache, Witpoortjie resident Thembisa Njikelana started the Never Forgotten support group.
Also read: Support group says no to drugs
According to Njikelana, participating in the group offers many benefits such as receiving emotional support in a safe and non-judgmental environment as well as an opportunity to begin and continue the healing process through sharing your own story and hearing the stories of others.
The group meets once a month at different venues and the next meeting will be on February 11 at Ramkiki Restaurant, Conferences and Weddings in Ruimsig.
Also read: Support group for parents who’ve had to bury their child
“I started the support group to help myself and other parents who have had the same trauma as me and what is important is that people need to seek help from health professionals. I also draft a year plan so that parents know what is happening and where the next meeting will take place,” said Njikelana.
According to the group, participating also offers them an increased understanding of how children and other family members react to loss.
Parents who have lost their loved one or a child are invited to join the support group in their venture of healing while helping others heal.
Members of the community who are interested in joining the group or would like more information are advised to contact Njikelana on 078 396 2815.
