FOCUS Families Of Children United In Spirit
A group no one wants to belong to . . .Spiritual journeys of families after the loss of a loved one
by
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It was bitter cold that night. A storm was forming. We had to find him. I stayed at home with the grandchildren, while everyone searched. I tried to be calm, kept the coffee going, tried not to scare the grandkids. Friends and family drove trucks, rode on snowmobiles and some even walked. Cold, cold, cold. I can't stand the cold to this day. Then it happened. Someone came to the door and said they found him. I went, but I can't remember who with. Someone stayed with the grandchildren, I don't know who. I just remember all of the flashing lights and all of the sad faces as I got out of the car . . . or was it a truck . . . and there was Bill, my husband. "He's gone, he's gone." We held each other and I could hear myself say, "No, no, no!"
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About the Book
To those of you who have lost a loved one, our goal is that this collection of personal stories will bring you hope. You are not alone. Many have walked your path and know the true depth of your sorrow. Our wish is that these stories will resonate with you and healing will begin. With that healing, we wish you hope for the future. With hope, your future will someday include being reunited with your loved one. Our message is simple. Your loved one is closer to you in spirit than you can ever imagine. Through the darkness of grief, know there will come a day when you will feel the warmth of sunshine, hear the joy of laughter and taste life with a new perspective. To those of you who have not lost a loved one, our desire is that you gain understanding of the bereaved. We hope our stories speak to your soul. We offer you insight that may help you gain compassion and sympathy for those who are grieving.
About the Author
(Image of Regina Elkhatib placed here.) Regina has been married for forty years to her husband, Mounir. Together they have three surviving children, Dina, Rick and Danya, and four grandchildren. Originally from Lebanon, they made their home in Sylvania, Ohio in 1971. One year after the loss of their third child, Mark, June 18, 1996, Regina and Mounir started FOCUS Bereavement Group. Along with her friend, Regina also formed "Four The Boys" Foundation to honor their two sons. This is a non-profit organization benefiting local children's causes. (Image of Angela Christensen placed here.) Angela lives in the rural community of Ottawa Lake, Michigan, where she and her husband grew up and raised their children. She has a degree in fine art and has been a self-employed business owner over 20 years. She loves her home, hobbies, traveling and spending time with many friends and family. She is especially devoted to her children, Eric and Amanda. Since the losses of her teenage son, Nick, July 19, 2001, and husband of 30 years, Mark, January 10, 2009, Angela now helps others through the FOCUS Bereavement Group and her gift shop, Angela's Angels & Antiques in Sylvania, Ohio.