Unfortunately, this is a common scenario for young children who suffer the loss of a parent or other close family member or loved one. And for the teen that loses a parent, the situation is similar in that they are not allowed to experience the normal grieving process either. Many times they are told to "be strong" and "carry on" for the surviving parent or family, or that it is now their responsibility to "care for the family." In these situations children and teens are not allowed to progress through the normal grieving process and, as a result, many times find themselves acting out in a negative way.

There are signs that a child is having a hard time coping with their loss symptoms of chronic depression; sleeping difficulties; low self esteem; academic failure or indifference toward school-related activities; deterioration of relationships with family and friends; risk-taking behaviors such as drug and alcohol abuse, fighting, and sexual experimentation. But many times these symptoms are overlooked because other family members are having difficulty coping with the loss themselves, or the symptoms are thought to be "a phase they are going through."

Even if the symptoms are recognized as unresolved grief, many adults are not equipped to deal with the situation.

Heart of Georgia Hospice realized the need for an outlet where children and youth could release those pent-up feelings and hosted the first Camp WINGS in November 2000. The word WINGS is an acronym for "When In Need Get Support."

Camp WINGS is held each year at Camp Martha Johnston in Lizella on the first full weekend in November. The 2009 date is November 6 8. Attendance is open to boys and girls ages six to sixteen who have suffered the loss of a loved one. Campers spend the weekend taking a journey through the grieving process as they learn how to identify and express emotions, deal with and share the memories of their loved one, and acquire a sense of peace and hope for their future as they adjust to life without this person. Many fun activities such arts and crafts, horseback riding, group games, and a campfire balance a weekend of therapy.

In previous years Camp WINGS averaged 25 to 30 campers with 50 to 60 staff members and volunteers. However, in 2008, there were 40 campers with over 80 staff members and volunteers. Each camper has a trained "buddy" who is with them all weekend to let them know it is okay to grieve and that their feelings are normal.

Volunteers work alongside Heart of Georgia Hospice staff during arts and crafts activities where campers create and decorate items like picture frames and memory boxes dedicated to the memory of their loved one. Other volunteers help with the group game times, while still others work in the dining hall to prepare meals for all the campers and workers. It takes a tremendous amount of work to have a successful camp, but it is a very rewarding time. In the words of one volunteer, "It makes me feel good to know that I can help a child get through a tough time, so they can get back to being a kid again."

The financial expense of the camp is also great. It costs over $150 for each camper to attend. However, the only cost to the family is a $10 per child registration fee. The balance is provided through the generous contributions of civic groups, businesses and individuals throughout Middle Georgia. If you would like to help sponsor a child to Camp WINGS, contributions can be sent to Heart of Georgia Hospice, Camp WINGS Sponsorship, 103 Westridge Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31088. Heart of Georgia Hospice is the Warner Robins area's only not-for-profit hospice and all contributions are tax deductible.

If you have, or know of a child or young person who would benefit from attending Camp WINGS, call the Heart of Georgia Hospice office at (478) 953-5161 for more information.