Grieving can feel incredibly isolating, but you are not alone. Mourning Sunrise is a virtual support group led by bereaved parents and counselors that offers a safe and supportive space to connect with others who understand the pain of losing a child.
How the Program Began
by Valerie Locher
I am a Palliative Care Family Advisor for Texas Children’s Hospital. I am also the mother of two children, Lauren and Brian. Four years after our son Brian was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, he died at almost ten years old.
After several years of working through my grief using various modalities, I helped create the Mourning Sunrise program for grieving parents. Experiencing the death of a child is life changing. Parents of children who have suffered complicated illnesses or trauma have unique needs in processing their grief. “Grief needs to be witnessed,” says grief author David Kessler.
In the Mourning Sunrise program, we share ideas and tools to begin the process of healing our broken hearts. We make use of ideas from Tom Zuba’s book, Permission to Mourn.
I hope you will join us. Healing is possible.
What the Program Offers
Mourning Sunrise is a virtual support group for parents and caregivers who are grieving the loss of a child. This group creates a safe, compassionate space to share your story, listen to others, and explore your grief with people who understand.
Sessions are led by bereaved parent facilitators and grief professionals who walk alongside you through this part of your journey. Each week includes meaningful conversations and guided reflections, all designed to help you process your grief and feel less alone. You’ll also receive a virtual workbook with weekly themes, writing prompts, and optional reading to support your healing between sessions.
How it Works
Mourning Sunrise groups meet once a week over Microsoft Teams. Because we do not have specific group start dates for new groups, families are placed on a waitlist. When a new group is scheduled, we will reach out to provide dates, meeting times, and a link to join the virtual sessions.
While the number of weeks may vary, each series offers consistent connection and a supportive environment to move through grief, one step at a time.
How to Join
If you are interested in joining an upcoming Mourning Sunrise group, please complete our brief sign-up form here: Mourning Sunrise Sign-Up Form
If you have questions about the program or would like to learn more before signing up, please contact the Grief Resource Team atGriefSupport@texaschildrens.org.