I lost my husband and best friend, Jack Witham in May of 2015 after a valiant battle with Pancreatic Cancer.   While we knew he death was going to happen and I thought I was as ready as possible to deal with the sadness and loss, it was way more devastating than I could ever imagine.  The first year after Jack's death was a blur and all I could do was put one foot in front of the other. I thought, once that year of "firsts" was over, I would be better. Well, that wasn't the case.  In fact, the second year was worse than the first. A dear friend, suggested I might try Gilda's Club  as they provided grief support. I reached out and came to the new member meeting.  From the moment I walked in the clubhouse, I was met by caring, wonderful volunteers and staff. The first meeting was very hard, but for once I was with people who felt the same as I did. After that first night, I attended the 4 week Living With Grief series. The classes helped me understand what and why I was feeling the way I was.  In addition, I enrolled in other enrichment classes Gilda's had to offer. I still go to the occasional class. Joining Gilda's Club has been a huge impact for me on my Grief Journey and I would like to pay it forward in order to help another person who will be in need.

Thanks for your contribution!

-Barbara Dillon