Growing Through Grief: Dave and Kelly

Dave and Kelly first met in 2002, were married in 2005 and in 2012, they welcomed their son, Charlie. Shortly after Charlie’s first birthday, Kelly received a devastating diagnosis of breast cancer. “Kelly was so headstrong and confident, she refused to let this take her down,” says Dave. For 9 years, Kelly bravely battled her diagnosis, and eventually, it came time for the family to discuss palliative care. Like many families in similar situations, they struggled with difficult conversations surrounding advanced care planning. A retired hospice nurse within their family suggested reaching out for additional support, leading them to contact Hospice of the Western Reserve (HWR).  

 “The first step was to get Kelly comfortable,” recalls Dave. “They helped to administer injections, manage her port and IV, and get medical equipment to the house.” The HWR team also assisted Dave with navigating complex health systems, offered education and resources and answered his questions as Kelly’s health declined. “When we transitioned from palliative care to hospice care, it was seamless,” says Dave. During Kelly’s home hospice care, a Hospice of the Western Reserve music therapist began making regular visits to the home. “Music therapy brought solace and joy to all three of us and it put a smile on our faces during a very challenging time,” says Dave. “Over time, the music therapist built trust with Charlie and helped him open up and share his emotions.”

Kelly passed peacefully in her home in August 2022 with her family by her side. In the wake of Kelly’s passing, Dave turned to Western Reserve Grief Services for support. He began participating in individual counseling with a Bereavement Coordinator who offered him a space to be introspective and provided reassurance in his decision-making. 

Charlie attended Together We Can, a grief camp that provides the opportunity for kids to be with others who are also grieving the death of a loved one. Camps are expressive and led by experienced facilitators in art, music, play, and nature activities. “Charlie was nervous and apprehensive at first, but sure enough, he came home from the first day and couldn’t wait to go back tomorrow,” says Dave. “He made a buddy there and met other kids that were going through a similar experience.” 

Two years later, Dave still connects with his Bereavement Coordinator for check-ins when he needs extra support. “Hospice of the Western Reserve gave us so many gifts throughout this experience,” says Dave. “From Kelly’s care to all of the grief support, they have been such a beacon of support for our family.”