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Phil Darmelio found solace and companionship in a men's bereavement group hosted by Franciscan Health after the death of his wife, Joanne, in March 2023. The Indianapolis resident joined the group seeking support and discovered others facing similar challenges. "The one thing about our men’s group is that we talk and if we want to cry, you can, and I did cry," said Darmelio. He emphasized the importance of expressing emotions within the group.
Darmelio learned about the group through his daughter-in-law and was intrigued by the idea of attending. "We get to express our feelings and just talk," he noted. The sessions also involve sharing suggestions based on personal experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Having attended three consecutive six-week sessions, Darmelio plans to continue this spring. "We really do help each other," he remarked, highlighting the mutual understanding developed among attendees.
The next session starts on Tuesday, April 8, running for six consecutive Tuesday mornings from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., until May 13 at the Franciscan Hospice House in Indianapolis. Darmelio encourages men who have lost loved ones to join. "If people are hesitant to attend, I would tell them you should come because everybody in the room is more or less in the same boat you are," he advised.
Participation is free but requires registration by calling 317-528-2636. The Franciscan Hospice House is located at 8414 Franciscan Lane in Indianapolis.
