The Crosswalk

A Roots & Roads resource for navigating serious illness and end-of-life care decisions.

the light remains

"There are some who bring a light so great to the world, that even after thay have gone the light remains." - Anonymous

sunrise-in-lefkas-island-2021-08-31-16-34-06-utcweb

Bereavement

Grief is a natural reaction to loss; we can experience it emotionally, spiritually, and physically. When a loved one dies, grief can manifest in ways as unique as each person’s life. There is no one “right” way to grieve but there are resources to support us through this journey. At times we may feel all alone as we walk the path of grief and loss, but while our grief is unique to who we are, we are also part of a community of people who can provide needed perspectives, words of comfort, a listening ear, and the strength to sit with us in our most difficult times. It is important to recognize that there is no “getting over” grief, but by leaning into it with self-compassion and support, we can recognize that each step we take in healing has purpose and meaning. This section provides information and resources that can be accessed online, in local support groups, and through individual bereavement counseling opportunities.

Note: Many hospice providers offer grief counseling (or can refer you to a grief counselor or support group) regardless of whether your loved one was on their service. Contact a local hospice in your area for more information.

finding support through reading

Whether you or someone you know is grieving, reading can help you cope by offering up new perspectives.

Bearing the Unbearable: Love, Loss, and the Heartbreaking Path of Grief

Author: Joanne Cacciatore

"If you love, you will grieve—and nothing is more mysteriously central to becoming fully human." 

Understanding your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart

Author: Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD

"Sorrow is an inseparable dimension of our human experience. We suffer after a loss because we are human. And in our suffering, we are transformed."

It’s OK That You’re Not OK: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn’t Understand

Author: Megan Devine

"Some things cannot be fixed; they can only be carried. Grief like yours, love like yours, can only be carried." 

additional resources

Resources below may be accessed online, and include information on subjects such as complicated grief, rituals and traditions, how to support someone who is grieving, and different ways of coping with loss.

pexels-pixabay-247929

Carrying Our Grief 2024 End-of-Life Virtual Education Series

In 2024, we focused our virtual education series on grief and loss, inviting community members to attend sessions aimed at teaching skills to better support the bereaved. Topics included:

  • "Speaking Grief," a documentary film screening
  • Grief: The Mind-Body Connection
  • Using Creative Arts Expression as a Supportive Tool for Grief
  • Effective and Enduring Support for Suicide Bereavement

Contact Us

(520) 351-5441

fax (520) 618-5473

5049 E Broadway Blvd., Suite 400
Tucson, AZ 85711

supporting@rootsandroads.org

The content on this website, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images, and all other materials, is for educational and informational purposes only.  The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to be applicable to any specific individual's medical condition. The Foundation has done its best to ensure that the information provided on this website and the resources available are accurate and provide valuable information; however, no material on this website is intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The Foundation assumes no duty to correct or update the website nor to resolve or clarify any inconsistent information that might be a part of the website. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained from or through this site with other sources, and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with your licensed physician or other medical care provider. 

Click to Read Full Disclaimer

This website is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide specific medical advice, and it should not be used to make a diagnosis or to replace or overrule a qualified health care provider's judgment.  Users should not rely upon this website for medical treatment.  The content on this website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider and follow their advice without delay regardless of anything read on this website.

The Foundation does not recommend, endorse, or make any representation about the efficacy, appropriateness, or suitability of any specific tests, products, procedures, treatments, services, opinions, health care providers or other information that may be contained on or available through this website.  The Foundation is not responsible nor liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services, or products that you obtain through this website.  You assume full responsibility for using the information on this website, and you understand and agree that the Foundation is not responsible or liable for any claim, loss, or damage resulting from its use by you or any user.