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Words from COPE President and Founder, Lillian Julien Dear COPE Families, As I struggle to find my voice (due to a vocal chord problem), I am reminded of my loss for words after each of my devastating losses. I had no voice to express my love, my anger, my pain. I had no voice to respond to the thoughtless things that people said. I had no voice to articulate my thoughts and feelings. Summer brings with it many celebrations: parties, barbecues, graduations, weddings, and holiday weekends. Finding your voice to say “No” to an invitation can be challenging. If you can find the strength to attend, find your voice when you’ve had enough and you’re ready to leave. Grief and sadness increase stress, anxiety and vulnerability. And not having a voice is disempowering. Finding your voice will help people help you, and ultimately teach them to help others who are experiencing loss. Express what you need and find the things in summer that bring you comfort. The beach, the flowers, the birds, the sunsets, whatever it may be… I wish you peace and the little joys that bring you hope. Lilly COPE President and Founder |
July 2017
