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Bocce, Good Food, and Bright Futures Bocce, Good Food, and Bright Futures Bocce, Good Food, and Bright Futures \| TAPS Kristi Stolzenberg What could bocce and the Culinary Institute of America possibly have in common with TAPS? As it turns out, a couple of things: the Michael C. Cerullo Memorial Veteran Scholarship, which is awarded to a deserving TAPS survivor on the road to culinary greatness, and the annual bocce tournament that funds it, hosted by Michael’s surviving son, Paul. Summer 2023 Michael’s son,
Mental Health in the Movies and Media: Continuing the Discussion on Suicide Mental Health in the Movies and Media: Continuing the Discussion on Suicide Mental Health in the Movies and Media: Continuing the Discussion on Suicide \| TAPS Carla Stumpf Patton Writers note: This story contains topics related to mental health and suicide. If you are experiencing emotional distress or thoughts of suicide, help can be found by contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (Veterans Press 1), or by contacting the National Crisis Text Line by texting “
Putting the Closure on the Use of the Word Closure in Grief Putting the Closure on the Use of the Word "Closure" in Grief Putting the Closure on the Use of the Word "Closure" in Grief \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt "If you are seeking a time when you will be finished, you will never be done." ~ TIBETAN SAYING In these contemporary times, you may be led to believe that you need to achieve “closure” after the death of someone in your life. As a matter of fact, you may have already experienced someone approaching you and asking, “Have you had closure yet?” I
Saturday Morning Message: What do your dreams mean? Saturday Morning Message: What do your dreams mean? Saturday Morning Message: What do your dreams mean? \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, Dreams don’t come to all survivors, but when they do, they are vivid. I chose this picture to open the message this week. It shows that love never goes away and a reminder can come at the strangest of times if we just look for it. It breaks through the dawn to show us that our loved ones are still with us. There are several ways the responders this week sha
Healing Your Grieving Heart Healing Your Grieving Heart Healing Your Grieving Heart Bonnie Carroll Alan Wolfelt “Believe in the wonderment of life, the magic of love, and the reality of death.” – Carroll Bryant You may have heard of the "stages" of grief, popularized in 1969 by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross's landmark text, On Death and Dying. In this book she lists the five stages of grief that she saw terminally ill patients experience in the face of their own impending deaths: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and accep
Myths about Children and Grief Myths about Children and Grief Myths about Children and Grief Darcie Sims Children are often shuttled off or ignored by adults who may be grieving themselves and do not have the energy, resources, or understanding necessary to help them. Society tends to pacify itself with the rationale that children are resilient and thus fails to recognize that children need as much compassion and support as adults require in adapting to dramatic or traumatic changes in their lives. Loss, regardless of t
What NOT to Say to a Military Widow What NOT to Say to a Military Widow What Not to Say to a Military Widow - TAPS News Jenna Grassbaugh "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal." ~Author Unknown When I first lost Jon, I didn't know how to let anyone help me. I retreated behind an emotional wall and kept almost everyone in my life at arm's length. The only person I wanted to talk with about how I was feeling was the one person I couldn't talk to ever again. I didn't have the energy to
Pedaling Fast, Headed Nowhere Pedaling Fast, Headed Nowhere Pedaling Fast, Headed Nowhere Darcie Sims I was riding my new exercise bike this morning, making good on a new year’s resolution, when I got to thinking. Here I am, pedaling fast and getting nowhere. It’s hard work. Riding an exercise bike is a lot like grieving. We seem to be pedaling fast and sometimes, it seems as if we are going nowhere. Grief just seems to become an endless ribbon of concrete, stretching far past my limits of endurance. It never seems t
A Father’s Promise A Father’s Promise A Father’s Promise \| TAPS Robert Gilbert "Brimfield Fire F-82 to RMH on the HEAR frequency, I'm en route 'hot' to your location with a 34-year-old female, full-term second pregnancy, with contractions less than five minutes apart, and my ETA is less than four minutes to your ER!" That was my radio transmission as I raced Robert’s mom, Catherine, to Robinson Memorial Hospital (RMH), as an EMT-I and firefighter. Upon arrival, the RMH Police parked my vehicle; Catherine was r
Saturday Morning Message: Supporting Others in Grief Saturday Morning Message: Supporting Others in Grief Saturday Morning Message: Supporting Others in Grief Carol Lane Good Morning, When someone you know experiences the death of a loved one, words just don't seem enough. Finding ways to help others who are grieving can be easier when you think of the support others gave you. Thanks to the survivors who wrote this week as they reflected on what was meaningful to them and used those memories to generate hints on best ways to reach out when som
Saturday Morning Message Saturday Morning Message Saturday Morning Message Carol Lane Good Morning, The Saturday message started out as a weekly letter between a few friends that met at the TAPS National seminar over a Memorial Day many years ago. This week the Saturday message will be posted on the TAPS blog as well as the TAPS Online community, and in the TAPS peer group sites. The love and support that comes through being a part of the TAPS family is wonderful. The questions that are asked apply to all survivors
Women’s Empowerment Retreats Help You Dig Deep, Make Friends and Press Onward Women’s Empowerment Retreats Help You Dig Deep, Make Friends and Press Onward Women’s Empowerment Retreats Help You Dig Deep, Make Friends and Press Onward \| TAPS Emily Munoz Erin Jacobson When a rock hits water, it’s the initial splash that gets our attention. It’s apparent that something in the world has shifted; something is no longer in the place it was. How similar this is to early grief — that cold initial shock, the feeling of sudden displacement. It can take a while to realize that m
Stronger Together Stronger Together Stronger Together \| TAPS Lalaine Estella Peer Mentor Karen Hilliard, surviving spouse of Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey A. Hilliard, and Sherry Jennings-Kevianne, surviving spouse of Sgt. Julian Kevianne, are decidedly two very different women. Karen, pictured on the left, describes Sherry as artistic and creative, while Sherry, on the right, says Karen is logical and business-like. But their differences matter little when they lean on each other’s strengths for ongoing support
Saturday Morning Message: Stress Reduction Strategies Saturday Morning Message: Stress Reduction Strategies Saturday Morning Message: Stress Reduction Strategies Carol Lane Good morning, The picture this week is from a TAPS seminar. I was inspired to use it by the suggestions given by several survivors this week. I had not thought about cooking as a way to manage stress, but you will read more in the Answers from Survivors section. TAPS is constantly working on events and programs to help survivors on their journey. As you read this, think a
Good Grief Camp Corner Good Grief Camp Corner Good Grief Camp Corner Jonathan Kirkendall It was May 2006. I was a civilian, a mental health professional, and I was standing in the lobby of the Doubletree Hotel in Arlington, Va., feeling lost. A few weeks before, I heard a radio interview with Bonnie Carroll talking about a program called TAPS. With a brother and a nephew serving in Iraq, I was intrigued. I was struggling to find a concrete way to support the troops - especially since the troops were my family. A
Faces of TAPS: Surviving Mother Holly Higgins Story Faces of TAPS: Surviving Mother Holly Higgins Story Faces of TAPS: Surviving Mother Holly Higgins Story \| TAPS TAPS Holly Higgins Faces of TAPS gives military survivors the space to, in their own words, both celebrate the lives of their military loved ones and reflect on their personal grief journey. Holly Higgins, surviving mother of U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Daniel James Johnson, lives her life to honor her son. In 2010, Daniel was killed in action in Afghanistan and, ever since, Holly a
Dispelling the Misconceptions Dispelling the Misconceptions Dispelling the Misconceptions Alan Wolfelt About Suicide and Grief and Mourning Excerpted from The Wilderness of Suicide Grief: Finding Your Way Misconception: A misconception is a mistaken notion you might have about something—in other words, something you believe to be true but that is not true. Misconceptions about grief are common in our society because we tend not to openly mourn or talk about grief and mourning. You can see how we’d have misconceptions
Winter Wallowing Winter Wallowing Winter Wallowing Darcie Sims Though winter seems to have more than its share of less than wondrous days, occasionally we have an especially down day. Some days aren't too bad. They start out kind of slowly, like a reluctant first grader, but gather momentum as the hours flow by. Some days get a jump-start on me. By the time I hit the shower, I'm functioning without feeling, so much like those early foggy days of grief. Those are the days when hot cocoa and a bowl of st
Write On: How Sharing Your Story with TAPS Can Bring Healing to You and Fellow Survivors Write On: How Sharing Your Story with TAPS Can Bring Healing to You and Fellow Survivors Write On: How Sharing Your Story with TAPS Can Bring Healing to You and Fellow Survivors \| TAPS TAPS "[Storytelling] is, in and of itself, a coping skill we can use to heal our hearts." ~ Rachel Hunsell, surviving sister of U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal J. Kyle Price, and TAPS Program Manager, Outdoor Engagement Losing a loved one requires facing a full spectrum of emotions, some familiar, some o
TAPS Friendsgiving TAPS Friendsgiving TAPS Friendsgiving TAPS As we move further into Fall, we begin ushering in the holiday season and are reminded of the importance of family and community. This Fall, we are creating local, one day events across the country where survivors can connect and acknowledge the bittersweet nature of the holidays and the range of emotions that can come along with them. We call this TAPS Friendsgiving. Together, we will tell the stories of those who left empty seats at the table, and
Saturday Morning Message: Dealing With Emotions That Arise During Holidays, Birthdays, or Death Dates Saturday Morning Message: Dealing With Emotions That Arise During Holidays, Birthdays, or Death Dates Saturday Morning Message: Dealing With Emotions That Arise During Holidays, Birthdays, or Death Dates Carol Lane Good Morning, Finding strategies that help deal with emotions that come around special holidays, birth or death dates of our loved ones can be difficult. This week the Saturday message will answer the question in a slightly different style. Several articles from the TAPS magaz
A 9/11 Reflection: TAPS at the Pentagon Family Assistance Center A 9/11 Reflection: TAPS at the Pentagon Family Assistance Center A 9/11 Reflection: TAPS at the Pentagon Family Assistance Center Bonnie Carroll On September 11, 2001, the TAPS Families watched along with the rest of the world as the unthinkable tragedy unfolded. As military survivors, there was an immediate realization that the mission of the American Armed Forces would change profoundly after that day. Bonnie Carroll, TAPS President and Founder, was serving as an Air Force Reserve Officer
Finding Your Way through the Holidays Finding Your Way through the Holidays Finding Your Way through the Holidays Andrea Hug A Guide for Parents of Grieving Children The holiday season is here. At least that’s what the advertisers think. We hear “Happy Holidays,” “Feliz Navidad,” and “Happy New Year” all the time and wonder if we will ever be happy again. For those of us who are grieving, getting from one day to the next may be all we can manage during this season. Grieving is the hardest and most demanding work you will eve
A widow’s transformational trip A widow’s transformational trip A widow’s transformational trip \| TAPS Carole Hilton Many years ago, about seven years after my husband’s death, I was sitting in a meeting participating in an icebreaker activity. As we went around the room and shared something that was on our bucket list, I was horrified to realize that I had nothing. Nothing that I was looking forward to — no long term plans or dreams. Since my husband’s death in 2004 my entire focus had been on raising our three children (w
Facing My Fears on Heartbreak Hill Facing My Fears on Heartbreak Hill Facing My Fears on Heartbreak Hill Linda Ambard The Boston Marathon is going to be my 100th marathon on April 18th. It was never supposed to be my 100th marathon because 100 marathons is usually a time where people come and celebrate the milestone. My 100thmarathon was supposed to be about finishing the Bucket List I had when Phil was killed and starting a new Bucket List for the next chapter in my life. I figured five years would be time enough to be rea
Support Yourself and Your Children Support Yourself & Your Children Support Yourself & Your Children Andrea Hug Through the Holidays The holidays are here… As a parent who is grieving, thinking about the holidays may seem ludicrous, and yet your children will not let them pass without celebration. Children naturally need to find the joy in the season. But it is an overwhelming time with demands that might cause unmanageable stress. It’s helpful to consider how you can ease the demands of the season and still honor your missin
When Small Talk is a Big Issue When Small Talk is a Big Issue When Small Talk is a Big Issue \| TAPS Emily Munoz Traveling the country to host Regional Seminars, the TAPS team hears about the sense of freedom that comes from connecting with other people who understand. At TAPS events, you can be yourself — the armor can come off; the mask can fall away. As this happens, our bonds as a TAPS family strengthen and grow. And then, Sunday rolls around, and with it comes the real world — and some of us need that armor back. We do
Grief Returns When the Nest Empties Grief Returns When the Nest Empties Grief Returns When the Nest Empties \| TAPS Sarah Greene Over the years, you have worked hard to raise your survivor kids to the best of your ability. Their grieving hearts need extra care and you have frequently put your own grief to the side while doing the job of both parents. You have been so busy with the demands of life and kids that you barely noticed what you needed along the way. In the mix of coping with loss, raising kids, running the househol
Saturday Morning Message: The things they leave behind Saturday Morning Message: The things they leave behind Saturday Morning Message: The things they leave behind \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, This week, survivors shared items they keep that are special remembrances of their loved ones. The picture today is of the laundry jug given to Marcia, by her son, Patrick, the last time he was home. She is the author of the original question. Read what others have saved to remind them of their loved ones. Surviving friends and family are invited to
Suggested Books for Grieving Adults Suggested Books for Grieving Adults Suggested Books for Grieving Adults Jonnie Chandler Editor’s Note: Our last issue featured books for children, and the issue before that listed books for teens. This article features books for adults. Some of them are specific to parental grief, while others are more general and incorporate all losses. I now tell time by before and after. Before two Army Captains knocked on my door on August 11, 2005, I was an avid reader. I loved having the words of even
In Search of Joy In Search of Joy In Search of Joy Darcie Sims Finding Your Way Through the Darkness Do you know how long it took me to allow laughter and joy to return to my life? Do you know how far it is from this side of the page to your side? Do you know how difficult it is to write about death? It was a long journey. It took me thirty years to get from your side of this page to mine...a long time...actually a whole lifetime! I liked my other life. In fact, I loved it! I hadn't intended to be h
Webinar: New Traditions and Tips for the Holidays Webinar: New Traditions and Tips for the Holidays Webinar: New Traditions and Tips for the Holidays TAPS Media This webinar provides tools for navigating the holidays after the loss of a loved one and is co-sponsored by The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors and The Wendt Center for Loss and Healing taps professional, webinar on grief and holidays Webinar: New Traditions and Tips for the Holidays Webinar Training Video This webinar provides tools for navigating the holidays after the l
Agency Over Agent Orange Agency Over Agent Orange Agency Over Agent Orange \| TAPS Claire Henline “Hey ‘CG’ Can I get you anything?” It was the question my dad always asked me when I was really sick. The kind of sick he could tell just by the look of me — a crumpled up little lump of ginger lethargy on the couch with my woobie — was not just the ‘7 to 2 get out of school flu’ I sometimes came down with. It came in a tone of deep sincerity and earnest determination to fix it however best he could. His hea
Growing Up TAPS: Understanding How Our Children Grieve Growing Up TAPS: Understanding How Our Children Grieve Growing Up TAPS: Understanding How Our Children Grieve Andy McNiel There is a personal nature to how each of us grieves, and that individuality extends to our children and teenagers. They uniquely grieve the death of their person based on (but not limited to) their personality type, individual preferences, how they most feel comfortable being in the world, the nature of the relationship they shared with their person before they died, and
Finding Meaning After Loss Finding Meaning After Loss Finding Meaning After Loss \| TAPS Michelle Collins On the one-year anniversary of my husband Glen’s death by suicide, I spread his ashes off a distinctive rocky outcropping into a small cove in south Maui. I gazed at the water, remembering our time together in this exact spot. Even after 22 years in service, most of which was spent in the SEAL teams, he referred to that little rocky cove as the place he performed “the most heroic act” of his life. He loved
Grief and Sleep Grief and Sleep Grief and Sleep \| TAPS Heather Stang 7 Tips to Cope with Insomnia After Loss Coping with grief isn’t easy. In addition to the emotional toll, there are a myriad of physical side effects. Sleeplessness is perhaps one of the most frustrating symptoms – when you are sleepy and can’t sleep it just adds insult to injury. While insomnia is considered a common grief reaction, sleeplessness should not be ignored, but tended to mindfully. When we don’t get enough sleep it impacts
Seek Reconciliation, Not Resolution Seek Reconciliation, Not Resolution Seek Reconciliation, Not Resolution Alan Wolfelt “Mourning never really ends. Only as time goes on, it erupts less frequently.” ~ Anonymous How do you ever find your way out of the wilderness of your grief? You don't have to dwell there forever, do you? The good news is that no, you don't have to dwell there forever. If you follow the trail markers on your journey through the wilderness, you will find your way out. But just as with any significant exper
Moments…Just Moments Moments…Just Moments Moments…Just Moments Darcie Sims Have you ever had a moment? You know, a moment when time stood still and everything was as it should be—right and good and whole and wonderful. A moment when you were in the right place at the right time and life was good. Did you ever have a moment like that? Did you ever have a moment when the sun danced across the windowpane and made a rainbow through the glass? Or the breeze caught the fragrance of roses and sent it drifting past
Snowflakes Snowflakes Snowflakes Darcie Sims Surviving the Winter Season Have you ever stood outside with your head tilted back and your mouth open wide trying to catch a snowflake? Snowflakes fall everywhere: on your hair, your chin, your eyelashes, even your nose. And some even manage to land on the very tip of your tongue only to vanish before you can really get a taste. Each snowflake is a completely different design and pattern. No two are ever created exactly the same. It is a mystery that co
Dad Left Us a Lifetime of Memories Dad Left Us a Lifetime of Memories Dad Left Us a Lifetime of Memories \| TAPS Caroline Banholzer Kate Banholzer In May of 2014 our dad, Dave Banholzer, was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme, a terminal form of primary brain cancer. Within a matter of seconds, we knew our lives would never be “normal” again. Following his diagnosis, he lived with cancer for 28 months. During his remaining time, he attempted to give us a lifetimes worth of memories and lessons that we still cherish to this d
Love, Loss, and Legacy Love, Loss, and Legacy Don Lipstein Turning Loss into Legacy - TAPS News Don Lipstein For more information on becoming a peer mentor or requesting a peer mentor, visit the TAPS Peer Mentor Program page. In some ways March 15, 2011, seems like yesterday and in others it feels like an eternity ago. That was the day my life turned upside down. I was completely helpless as my oldest son Joshua, 250 miles away from me, hung the phone up before he took his own life. That moment in time is sea
The Capacity to Love The Capacity to Love The Capacity to Love Alan Wolfelt The Reason We Grieve “Every time we make the decision to love someone, we open ourselves to great suffering, because those we most love cause us not only great joy, but also great pain. The greatest pain comes from leaving…the pain of the leaving can tear us apart. Still, if we want to avoid the suffering of leaving, we will never experience the joy of loving. And love is stronger than fear, life stronger than death, hope stronger than
National Bereavement Study: A Call to Action National Bereavement Study: A Call to Action National Bereavement Study: A Call to Action TAPS One of the recurring themes of grief is the feeling of isolation, the sensation that we are alone in the world and that no one understands what we are going through. At some point many of us find a way to “give sorrow words” as William Shakespeare wrote more than 400 years ago. We find our voice and want to be assured that someone is listening. The National Military Family Bereavement Study (NMFBS),
Embracing the Sadness of Grief Embracing the Sadness of Grief Embracing the Sadness of Grief \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt “In every heart, there is an inner room, where we can hold our greatest treasures and our deepest pain.” — Marianne Williamson Sadness is a hallmark symptom of grief, which in turn is the consequence of losing something we care about. In this way, you could say that sadness and love are inextricably linked. Yes, when you are grieving, it is normal to feel sad. I would even argue that it is necessary to fee
8 Ways to Cope After a Suicide Loss 8 Ways to Cope After a Suicide Loss 8 Ways to Cope After a Suicide Loss Carla Stumpf Patton Coping with suicide loss can feel devastating. In its aftermath, it can bring overwhelming, mixed emotions and questions about how and why this happened. More importantly, we wonder how we are going to survive with what feels like an insurmountable level of pain and loss. But, we can and do survive, and there are fellow survivors who offer us hope that our hearts can heal. A group of military survivors
Saturday Morning Message: Online Support Saturday Morning Message: Online Support Saturday Morning Message: Online Support Carol Lane Good morning, This picture comes from the new TAPS website. When you need support, this is the place to look. Everything TAPS has to offer is listed here. Some of the listings are the helpline that is available 24/7 at 800-959-TAPS (8277), upcoming events and resources such as casework or the survivor care team. There are also a variety of programs, including the TAPS Online Community, which links yo
Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Memories, Big and Small Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Memories, Big and Small Saturday Morning Message: Sharing Memories, Big and Small \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, The opening picture today was sent by Samantha, fiancé of Preston. I thought it was a great way to open today’s Saturday Morning Message because they look like they are having a great time. Read more about Preston below. I will keep my comments short, so you will have time to read the many memories that have been shared. Remember, you
The Journey through Grief The Journey through Grief The Journey through Grief Alan Wolfelt The Mourner’s Six Reconciliation Needs The death of someone loved changes our lives forever. And the movement from "before" to "after" is almost always a long, painful journey. I have learned that if we are to heal, we cannot skirt the outside edges of our grief. Instead, we must journey all through it, sometimes meandering the side roads, sometimes plowing directly into its raw center. I have also learned that the journey
You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part One You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part One You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part One \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt Author's Note: I have been a grief counselor and educator for more than 40 years, and “crazy” is the most common way in which people describe their early grief to me. Let me assure you straight off: It is normal to feel crazy after a significant loss. But you’re actually not going crazy in the way you may think. What you’re doing is grieving. This six-part article series
Saturday Morning Message: What It's Like to Attend a TAPS Seminar or Retreat Saturday Morning Message: What It's Like to Attend a TAPS Seminar or Retreat Saturday Morning Message: What It's Like to Attend a TAPS Seminar or Retreat Carol Lane Good Morning, Deciding to go to a TAPS event can be difficult for the new survivor. Although they are held in various parts of the country, travel is often involved. The survivor asks, “What will this event be like?” or “How will I be treated?” I posed this week’s question asking survivors to share what a TAPS seminar was like. T
Forgiveness, a Key to Healing Forgiveness, a Key to Healing Forgiveness, a Key to Healing Andrea Hug Allowing peace into your life He died at the hand of another and I was left to raise our three small children alone. Chris was my husband, my best friend, and my soul mate. Simply put he was everything to me, and instantly I felt as if I had nothing. How could I go on? Chris, an avid cyclist, had gone out for a bicycle ride down a country road in the late afternoon on August 1, 1993 and was struck from behind by a man
Star Light, Star Bright Star Light, Star Bright Star Light, Star Bright Darcie Sims Did you ever wish upon a star? Did you ever stand outside, on a summer night and feel the soft darkness enfold you like black velvet, the gentle night breeze kissing your cheeks, the grass tickling your bare toes? Did you ever lie on your back, looking at the starry quilt tossed over the heavens? Did you ever see a shooting star and wonder where it came from and where it was going? Did you ever search for a special star and wish on i
The Love Lives On Act The Love Lives On Act The Love Lives On Act \| TAPS TAPS Linda Ambard This Valentine’s Day, TAPS honors not just the love we have all lost, but the love many of our surviving spouses have found since their loss. TAPS has been the driving force on the Love Lives On Act, which would allow surviving spouses to remarry at any age and maintain their benefits — because being widowed should not penalize you from the possibility of finding love in the future. The bill will be reintroduced later thi
TAPS Men's Program TAPS Men's Program TAPS Men's Program \| TAPS TAPS TAPS understands that most men need other men to help pave the way for them to grieve. Whether you are a surviving brother, father, battle buddy, adult child, or spouse, you have a home at TAPS. So what is it about the TAPS Men’s Program that bonds us to each other? We are men who lost loved ones who served this great country. We lean on each other to share the experience, strength, and hope that we each have inside us– no matter
Honor and Healing on the Diamond teams4taps: Honor and Healing on the Diamond Honor and Healing on the Diamond \| TAPS TAPS Baseball –– Our National Pastime Over the years we’ve cheered for our favorite teams and players. we have worn jerseys, t-shirts and caps to show our spirit and pride. baseball brings to mind cherished memories shared with friends and family. Since the inception of teams4taps in 2013, the teams, players, coaches, and fans of Major League Baseball have welcomed hundreds of TAPS families at ballparks acr
Walk This Way: Therapeutic Walking as Healing Walk This Way: Therapeutic Walking as Healing Walk This Way: Therapeutic Walking as Healing Lalaine Estella Those of us who work in bereavement know there is no one way to grieve. Just as there are many forms of grief, there are as many ways to support the person who is grieving. Some people are really good at articulating their feelings and processing their emotions verbally. Some are not comfortable talking about what they are going through and may internalize their feelings. Others may
What to Expect at a Seminar What to Expect at a Seminar What to Expect at a Seminar Carla Stumpf Patton In our grief, it can be difficult to imagine traveling to an event along with other bereaved survivors, many of whom are strangers, where the focus is on addressing our innermost pain in hopes of healing. And, yet, that is what happens when attending a TAPS Survivor Seminar. An understanding about what to expect in advance of attending can often ease emotions for first-time participants and your TAPS family wants y
In Between Days In Between Days In Between Days Noreen Doloughty The stretch of time between Father's Day and the anniversary of my dad's death is a rest stop along my journey each year. I was eight months old when my dad, Army SSG James C. Doloughty was killed in Vietnam. He served in Alpha Company of 1st Battalion, 502ndInfantry, 101st Airborne Division. My dad stepped forward to rescue the wounded, until he himself was wounded, in an ambush on July 8, 1969 in the foothills west of Tam Ky. He died the foll
To Infinity and Beyond To Infinity and Beyond To Infinity and Beyond Linda Ambard Running the Dopey Challenge at Disney World was about more than a race for me. I have now completed 79 marathons, but this marathon (plus a half marathon, 10 K, and 5 K) represented more than a taxing physical challenge. The miles jump started 2014-my year of hope. What better place to start it than the place where the beginning of the end started; many happy memories came flooding back, and I was able to take that first terrifying
Finding Our Way With Ford Finding Our Way With Ford Finding Our Way With Ford \| TAPS Patty Stubenhofer David El-Taher, Laura Rose Monk Crystal Becker So much life happens in cars. They carry us where we need to go — where we want to go. In them, we laugh, pep ourselves up for big days, and sing along to our favorite songs without inhibition. They are a part of first dates and first days of school; with their help, we bring home new puppies and new babies. On long drives, we share stories and snacks, nap deeply in the pa
You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Two You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Two You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Two \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt Editor's Note This is part two of a six-part series adapted from Dr. Alan Wolfelt's book, You're Not Crazy — You're Grieving. Part one appeared in the summer issue of TAPS Magazine. It's Important for You to Feel Safe and Comforted Have you felt stressed, anxious, fearful, agitated, panicked, worried, or uneasy since the death? I’m not sure grief is possib
Where the Music Began: The Inspiring Stories Behind Love Lives On Where the Music Began: The Inspiring Stories Behind Love Lives On Where the Music Began: The Inspiring Stories Behind Love Lives On \| TAPS TAPS "Love Lives On" is an album dedicated to the men and women who served and died in defense of America’s freedom. The songs included in this powerful collection share an honest message of courage, perseverance, and love. They are a vivid reminder of the guardians of our freedom and a reminder that the family also serves. Ten stories, ten families. V
Proactive Grieving Proactive Grieving Proactive Grieving Mitch Carmody And how we climb the S.T.A.I.R.S to get there When my father died in 1969, I was only 15 years old. My mom told me that I was the man of the family now and that I needed to take care of the farm and my sisters. I did just that. I did not grieve, I did not cry, I did not publicly mourn. I hid my sorrow as if it were some awful secret I was ashamed of. I moved on. When my brother died five years later, nothing much had changed. My brother
So You Think You’re Going Crazy? So You Think You’re Going Crazy? So You Think You’re Going Crazy? Darcie Sims I first began to think about going crazy shortly after our son died. It seemed innocent enough in the beginning. Just an occasional sound that came from his bedroom or a whiff of his scent that would catch me by surprise. I didn’t think much of it. In fact, I rather enjoyed those little reminders of him. But after sharing my first encounter with him with a neighbor, I knew the rest of the world would think me daft.
When Someone You Love Completes Suicide When Someone You Love Completes Suicide When Someone You Love Completes Suicide Alan Wolfelt Opening to the Presence of Your Loss This article is excerpted from Dr. Wolfelt's book The Wilderness of Suicide Grief: Finding Your Way. “In every heart there is an inner room, where we can hold our greatest treasures and our deepest pain.” ~ Marianne Williamson Someone you love has completed suicide. In your heart, you have come to know your deepest pain. To be bereaved literally means to be to
Saturday Morning Message: Activities to Deal with Grief Saturday Morning Message: Activities to Deal with Grief Saturday Morning Message: Activities to Deal with Grief Carol Lane Good morning, Dealing with our loved ones not being here can be isolating and lonely. Activities can not only help your grief but also create a way to show others that it is all right to share memories of your loved one. Some survivors find something about which they are passionate and do that to honor their loved ones. Others find it difficult to decide what to do. I w
Photos: stars4taps CBS Morning Show stars4taps with the CBS Morning Show stars4taps with the CBS Morning Show Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (10 photos) //
Video: TAPS Peer Mentors Share Their Experience TAPS Peer Mentors Share Their Experience TAPS Peer Mentors Share Their Experience TAPS Media Our Peer Mentor Network is a circle of comfort, hope and understanding; at its core is survivors helping survivors heal through the power of one-to-one connections. Visit the TAPS Peer Mentor page to learn how to become a TAPS Peer Mentor. TAPS Peer Mentors Share Their Experience Our Peer Mentor network is a circle of comfort, hope and understanding; at its core is survivors helping survivors
Photos: teams4taps Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service teams4taps Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service teams4taps for Military Survivors Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (33 photos) teams4taps, photos teams4taps Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service Photos Flickr Album Event Photos
Men's Virtual Chat Men's Virtual Chat: Healing Alongside Other Surviving Fathers Men's Virtual Chat: Healing Alongside Other Surviving Fathers \| TAPS Timothy Jabin My son, Tyrone Anthony, died by suicide on July 10, 2020. The last time that I spoke to my son was on July 4, his 25th birthday. After Ty’s death, I was contacted by Don Lipstein with the TAPS Survivor Care Team. Don invited me to participate in the Men’s Virtual Chat. Two Wednesdays a month a group of about 20 to 30 surviving men gather in this virt
TAPS Care Groups: Finding Comfort Together TAPS Care Groups: Finding Comfort Together TAPS Care Groups: Finding Comfort Together Lalaine Estella The need to be understood and connect with others is key to finding hope and healing. Every month, hundreds of our TAPS family members are embraced in Care Groups to have honest discussions about grief and loss in a safe space. Although these gatherings are not therapy, they are therapeutic and allow us to explore the emotions we encounter on our grief journey. We find comfort in the supporti
Making Memories at Mealtimes Making Memories at Mealtimes Making Memories at Mealtimes TAPS TAPS was born around a kitchen table, when families grieving a military tragedy came together to support each other and find comfort in knowing they weren’t alone. It was over shared meals and cups of tea that they were able to find a way forward, and still today we find that food is a wonderful way to come together, nourishing our bodies while we feed our souls. We share memories around the table. Our loved ones’ sense of humo
From Tragedy to Helping Others: Military Widow Gives Back From Tragedy to Helping Others: Military Widow Gives Back From Tragedy to Helping Others: Military Widow Gives Back TAPS Picking up the pieces after suffering a tragic loss is never easy. Thankfully, our military families don't have to walk through grief alone. The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) walks beside them. As it does each year, TAPS honored one survivor of a fallen service member with the Senator Ted Stevens Leadership Award at the TAPS Honor Guard Gala. This year's
Walking the Grief Journey Together on International Widows Day and Every Day Walking the Grief Journey Together on International Widows Day and Every Day Walking the Grief Journey Together on International Widows Day and Every Day Lynzy Savage Walking the Grief Journey Together on International Widows Day and Every Day Lynzy Savage, Surviving Spouse of Cpl William Savage, The Royal Regiment of Scotland My life changed when I lost my husband in 2013. Almost eight months pregnant when Sav was killed in Afghanistan, I had our son Connor four weeks after his funeral.
A Mother’s Love A Mother’s Love A Mother’s Love \| TAPS Kristi Stolzenberg Maria Gonzales Pamela Wanga In kindergarten, out of all the books and flashy trinkets at the school book fair, I used my money to purchase Love You Forever by Robert Munsch. If I had to guess, I was likely drawn to the toddler sitting in the middle of pure chaos of his own creation — thinking it was probably a hilarious book. If you’ve ever read the book, you know that — while it has glimmers of humor that I now find relatable as a par
Understanding A Widow’s Heart, New Directions Understanding A Widow’s Heart, New Directions Understanding A Widow’s Heart, New Directions Emma Wright March 9, 2013 Two and a half years ago today marks the darkest day I've ever known. The day when I was awakened by two dark silhouettes that I could see through the decorative glass panel of my front door. I could have been dreaming. Given the fact that the sun had not risen, that was my immediate assumption. But the silhouettes became much more real as I opened the door, confused and very
Sisters Celebrate Life — as Their Brother Would Want Sisters Celebrate Life — as Their Brother Would Want Sisters Celebrate Life — as Their Brother Would Want \| TAPS Katie Martin Beth Martin When our big little brother, Wyatt, died in Afghanistan in 2014, it was like each of us lost a limb. Besides not being able to breathe, we couldn’t even sit at a family event without feeling cheated. Wyatt, the youngest, had the ability to make every situation fun. These last five years could have been filled with just sadness if we had not made a conscious
Saturday Morning Message: Enjoyable Activities Saturday Morning Message: Enjoyable Activities Saturday Morning Message: Enjoyable Activities \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, Sharing enjoyable activities with a loved one can be the high point of our lives. When those activities are things we did with our loved ones, continuing to do them may keep these special people close to us. The picture today is one I took of a trip to Maine with the whole family when the kids were young. I still love to go to the beach. Sometimes I sit by the ocean o
Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night Linda Ambard I liked the person I became in the 23 years I was married to Phil. I learned to trust myself and to dream big. Life was filled with possibility, fun, and the comfort that came from knowing that even if I fell or failed, someone, my someone, believed in me and would love me anyway. It was strength forged of time tested hurdles, life events, and the moments. Like most people, I thought there would be mor
Taking Back My Finish Line Taking Back My Finish Line Taking Back My Finish Line Linda Ambard Nobody tells you how much grief is going to hurt. Although I am a marathon runner, I had to fight for each and every breath I took after Phil died. I woke up from a few stolen minutes of sleep with my bones aching and my body heavy. I went to bed exhausted and weary, but as soon as I close my eyes images began to torment and rob me of even more sleep. I’d think of my loved one, and the swollen knot in my throat would reappea
Three Years After Phil was Killed Three Years After Phil was Killed Three Years After Phil was Killed Linda Ambard When Phil was killed, I felt like I was all alone and that somehow I no longer fit in the world I had been a part of since I was 21. It had been many years since I was the center of gossip, but from the early moments less than a week after the funeral, people Phil had worked with were making bets about how long it would take for me to date and remarry. Someone considered it funny enough to tell me about it. Ot
Saturday Morning Message: Coping With Sudden Grief Emotions Saturday Morning Message: Coping With Sudden Grief Emotions Coping With Sudden Grief Emotions \| TAPS Saturday Morning Message Carol Lane Good Morning, Being there to listen without judgement is one wonderful gift TAPS gives to those who connect with our organization. The opening photo shows a TAPS Military Mentor listening carefully to a young survivor. Through our mentors, caring staff and our Helpline Team, TAPS is here 24/7 to listen and to provide support to all survivors. The Saturda
How I learned to re-embrace this precious gift of life How I learned to re-embrace this precious gift of life How I learned to re-embrace this precious gift of life \| TAPS Susan Carron-Demoreta September is National Suicide Prevention Month. This article is the fourth of five stories by TAPS suicide loss survivors who wish to share lessons learned from their grief journeys. We invite you to share this story using the hashtag #SurvivorSunday. If you know or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the National Suicide P
Terrorism Cannot Take Any More From Me Terrorism Cannot Take Any More From Me Terrorism Cannot Take Any More From Me Linda Ambard Until 9/11, I lived a shroud of naïve ignorance believing that terrorism was something that would never touch my country or my life. Terrorism was something that happened to other people in far off lands. I had lived in Europe for eight years at that point and while there were threats, I never really considered myself to be in danger. Phil deployed numerous times all over the world and I had long ago
Learning to Let Go Learning to Let Go Learning to Let Go Amber Baum (It’s Not What You Think) When most people hear me say I’m learning to let go, they assume I’m speaking of my late husband, Sergeant Ryan John Baum, who was killed in Iraq on May 18, 2007. Some time ago, I would have drawn the same conclusion, because some time ago I was genuinely trying to let him go. Too much pain, confusion, and uncertainty punched my gut each time I heard his name or recalled our memories. Back on that dark day in 2007,
Surviving Suicide Loss: One Mother’s Story Surviving Suicide Loss: One Mother’s Story Surviving Suicide Loss: One Mother’s Story \| TAPS Ava Henrickson The Night That Life Changed It was September 10, 2020. The pandemic was still affecting everyday life across the globe. I was lying in bed, half-asleep, when I thought I heard noises downstairs — like someone was knocking at the door. It was close to midnight, so I thought I must've been imagining it. I tuned it out, chalking it up to the neighbors being noisy. Shortly after I put it
Saturday Morning Message: Honoring Our Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Honoring Our Loved Ones Saturday Morning Message: Honoring Our Loved Ones \| TAPS Carol Lane Good morning, This week there were many unique responses to the question about how we honor our loved ones. If you are interested in recognizing your loved one by working with TAPS on a project, look at the TAPS Volunteer Central page or TAPS Peer Mentors page. The lead photo this week shows volunteers getting TAPS information ready to be sent out. After my initial grief, I s
Photos: TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing Launch TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing Launch TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing Launch TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (220 photos) photos, taps institute, professional education TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing Launch Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing launched March 5, 2018, providing workshops, seminars, panel discussions for bereaved individuals and grie
You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Six You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Six You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Six \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt Editor's Note This is the final article in a six-part series adapted from Dr. Alan Wolfelt's book, You're Not Crazy — You're Grieving. Parts one through five were published in the summer 2023, fall 2023, spring 2024, summer 2024 and fall 2024 issues of TAPS Magazine. In the early days after the death of someone you love dearly, it’s normal for this step to
12 Years of Grief 12 Years of Grief 12 Years of Grief \| TAPS Kaitlyn Branson Editor’s note: Today is Children's Grief Awareness Day. Throughout this month, we are featuring stories from surviving children, grief professionals and TAPS staff to draw attention to the needs of grieving children, their experiences and how best to support them. This essay first appeared on the author's Facebook page. As many of you know, I lost my dad 12 years ago. I want to start by saying this post focuses completely on ON
Helping a Suicide Survivor Heal Helping a Suicide Survivor Heal Helping a Suicide Survivor Heal Alan Wolfelt Historian Arnold Toynbee once wrote, "There are always two parties to a death; the person who dies and the survivors who are bereaved." Unfortunately, many survivors of suicide suffer alone and in silence. The silence that surrounds them often complicates the healing that comes from being encouraged to mourn. Because of the social stigma surrounding suicide, survivors feel the pain of the loss, yet may not know ho
Saturday Morning Message: The Power of Dreams Saturday Morning Message: The Power of Dreams Saturday Morning Message: The Power of Dreams Carol Lane Good Morning, This week several survivors wrote to tell about the dreams that they have had. They are so beautifully written that I am going to keep my comments short, so you can enjoy reading them. Over the Memorial Day weekend, TAPS will host the National Military Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp. There may be some who are reading this message who have registered for the first ti
Embracing the Sadness of Grief Embracing the Sadness of Grief Embracing the Sadness of Grief Alan Wolfelt “In every heart there is an inner room, where we can hold our greatest treasures and our deepest pain.” — Marianne Williamson Sadness is a hallmark symptom of grief, which in turn is the consequence of losing something we care about. In this way you could say that sadness and love are inextricably linked. When you are grieving, it is normal to feel sad. I would even argue that it is necessary to feel sad. But why i
Introducing Dayna Wood Introducing Dayna Wood Introducing Dayna Wood Dayna Wood At one point in my life I thought a year was a long time, and in some ways I still agree with that, but at the same time, it often feels like I blink and another year has gone by. The last 13 months have been particularly rough. My fiancé SSG Su Wan Ko was killed in an automobile accident in March 2011. The months without him have felt like years, but the time I spent with him felt too short. It seems to be a cruel joke of life. Now
Walking in the Shadow of a Hero Walking in the Shadow of a Hero Walking in the Shadow of a Hero Bevin Landrum Unexpected Loss Thanksgiving 2005 was a quiet family affair. Capt. Tom Hanrahan and his wife, Kim, stayed home in their quarters on Fort Polk to celebrate a simple Thanksgiving. Tom had just come out of Joint Readiness Training Center predeployment training the day before. They decided that with a toddler and a newborn, traveling to Texas just wasn’t going to happen that year. Photo Courtesy Kim Hanrahan Instea
Children’s Bereavement and Emotional Wellness, Part 2 Children’s Bereavement and Emotional Wellness, Part 2 Children’s Bereavement and Emotional Wellness, Part 2 Andrea Hug As grieving parents, we are concerned about the care and support we are able to offer our grieving children. How can we help children bounce back when they have experienced a profound loss or trauma? How do we offer good bereavement support for children? How do we help others to help our children? Consider the following topics in light of your child’s loss. Go through the bul
The Mask of Being OK The Mask of Being OK The Mask of Being OK \| TAPS Sammi Hester With the fall season fully underway, I find myself reflecting. My children and I have always loved the excitement Fall brings. With festivals, fires, and flavors, the senses come to life and new memories are made. For our family, Fall also signals the start of the holiday season, beginning with Halloween. While I know not everyone celebrates Halloween, the topic brought to mind the masks that are often worn during this t
Fishing and Fresh Air Leads to Fresh Perspectives Fishing and Fresh Air Leads to Fresh Perspectives Fishing and Fresh Air Leads to Fresh Perspectives \| TAPS TAPS At the heart of TAPS’ mission is peer support, TAPS Outdoor Programs is working to ensure that every survivor knows that they are not alone in the wilderness of their grief through the expansion of our accessible experiences in nature. In partnership with the National Park Trust, an organization designed to advance public parks, lands, and waters as spaces that are welcoming and a
Connected by Shared Experiences, Bound by Love Connected by Shared Experiences, Bound by Love Connected by Shared Experiences, Bound by Love \| TAPS Rachel Hunsell We arrived at the Machame Gate, just shy of 6,000 feet in elevation, situated in the rainforest nestling the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. A tidal wave of anticipation washed over me as we were welcomed by locals, our porters and guide staff preparing for the journey ahead. Before we crossed the threshold of the gate, we gathered, as families do, in a circle connected as one. Se
Godwinks: To The Stars Godwinks: To The Stars Godwinks: To The Stars \| TAPS Davina French The rain beat down, creating puddles on the road that could throw your vehicle around a bit. The passenger window went down again. This time about four inches, I rolled it up and told Scout to quit messing with me. As soon as I got the passenger window back up, my driver’s window started to go up and down erratically. Then it went down and stayed down. Doing 60 mph, drenched by the sideways rain now inside my vehicle, I turned
The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 1 The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 1 The Spiritual Path to Healing, Part 1 Alan Wolfelt Editor’s Note: The death of a loved one challenges us in many areas including our religious and spiritual beliefs. While spirituality and religious tradition help many who are grieving, TAPS does not endorse any one spiritual belief or religion over another. After the death of someone loved, you are “torn apart” and have some very unique needs. Among these needs is to nurture yourself in five importa
A Breath of Summertime—Anytime A Breath of Summertime—Anytime A Breath of Summertime—Anytime Darcie Sims It’s summer and the air is warm upon my face. The sunlight dances across the grass, casting tiny shadows of the dandelions that wave in the afternoon breeze. It’s nice here, sitting on the step, letting my mind wander, not really thinking of anything much. It’s been a long time since I was able to just sit and enjoy the gentle rhythms of a summer’s day. Do you remember summer? Summer, that wonderful reprieve from w
You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Four You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Four You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Four \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt Editor's Note This is part four of a six-part series adapted from Dr. Alan Wolfelt's book, You're Not Crazy — You're Grieving. Parts one through three were published in the summer 2023, fall 2023, and spring 2024 issues of TAPS Magazine. Telling Your Stories Helps You Survive Telling your stories of love and loss helps you survive. The more you allow you
Healing and Hope After Suicide Healing and Hope After Suicide Healing and Hope After Suicide Iris Bolton Surviving the death of a dear one is to endure great pain. Surviving a suicidal death is to compound that pain, often with guilt, anger, and confusion. Fortunately, hope is on the horizon with of the growing knowledge about grief and traumatic loss. This hope is fueled by a new willingness to talk freely about death. The grief community is learning about the causes of suicide, helping to discover ways to assist with
Four Years... And Counting Four Years... And Counting Four Years... And Counting Rachael Hill I say it every year, but has another year really gone by? How is that possible? How can time move so quickly, but yet so slowly at the same time? It has been four years. Four years since I last sent my husband to work with a hug and a kiss. Four years since that dreadful phone call bringing my world to a screeching halt. Four years since my husband died, and I was left to find my way in a world I never wanted to be in. A worl
Stop, Look, Listen Stop, Look, Listen Stop, Look, Listen Darcie Sims When was the last time you did nothing? Do you ever just sit anymore? Do you ever just lie on your back in new mown grass and watch the clouds dance by? Do you ever chase after butterflies, trying to give them a message to carry? Or dangle your toes in a pond or watch kids dash through a sprinkler? Do you ever sit on a porch or patio and smell the grass, the flowers, the air? Do you even have a porch or patio and do you know what sitting
Helping Military Kids with Traumatic Death Helping Military Kids with Traumatic Death Helping Military Kids with Traumatic Death Linda Goldman Ordinary fears are a normal part of a child’s developmental growth, and children create internal and external mechanisms to cope with these fears. But a child’s ordinary fears can be transformed into very real survival fears in the face of severe trauma. After children experience the death of a parent, they often feel alone and different. Frightened because their once comfortable world now seem
Growing Up TAPS: The Power of Outdoor Play Growing Up TAPS: The Power of Outdoor Play Growing Up TAPS: The Power of Outdoor Play Andy McNiel Spend Time Outside to Balance Screen Time Raising children today comes with the added challenge of technology — in the form of television, computers, tablets, and phones — competing for their attention. These devices offer 24/7 access to social media, games, movies, and other forms of entertainment. While technology has improved our lives in many ways, research shows that too much screen t
Hope and Healing After Homicide Loss Hope and Healing After Homicide Loss Hope and Healing After Homicide Loss \| TAPS Mara Melendez-Bandy When a loved one passes away, you are not only robbed of their physical presence in the here and now, you lose the chance to spend your future together. Your life after their death becomes filled with thoughts of “If only,” “We would have…” and “I wish…” Losing a loved one to homicide is devastating because of the pain and anguish of knowing the death was by the hands of another human being.
Taste the Love Taste the Love Taste the Love \| TAPS Chris Shank I've heard it said that smell is the sense most closely tied to memory. That is understandable as one of my fondest memories would be going to my grandmother's house and smelling the roast that had been cooking for hours. The meal she would make for us is something I can remember since I was old enough to understand what food was and is now a staple in our adult households. It should come as no surprise this was my brother Jeremy's favorite foo
Keeping Pace Keeping Pace Keeping Pace Rachael Hill On October 26th, 2014 I ran the Marine Corps Marathon with TAPS, my second ever full marathon! Now I have never claimed to be a runner, but completing a marathon had always been on my bucket list. The way I see it if you can run a marathon, you can do just about anything! While training for this marathon, I had to complete many long runs, and while on these long runs my mind would often wander through all sorts of things. One run even brought me to the r
Love and Grief Love and Grief Love and Grief Alan Wolfelt Living as You Were Meant to Live “We are all mirrors unto one another. Look into me and you will find something of yourself as I will of you.” ~ Walter Rinder Love is a sacred partnership of communion with another human being. You take each other in, and even when you are apart, you are together. Wherever you go, you carry the person inside you. Communion means the sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, especially on a spiritual l
You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Three You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Three You’re Not Crazy — You’re Grieving — Part Three \| TAPS Alan Wolfelt Editor's Note This is part three of a six-part series adapted from Dr. Alan Wolfelt's book, You're Not Crazy — You're Grieving. Part one and part two appeared in the summer and fall issues of TAPS Magazine. Acknowledging the Illusion of Control Death naturally throws thoughts, feelings, and behaviors into disarray. Nothing may feel “normal” right now.
Leaving a Mark on History Leaving a Mark on History Leaving a Mark on History \| TAPS Matt Davison In serving incarcerated veterans, I formed bonds with warriors who took part in wars spanning Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf War. One vet, who is incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution at Terminal Island, California, precedes all these wars and has become a valued friend over the past five years. Because of confidentiality issues, I will not give his complete name, but will refer to him simply as Rene. This is
Pets and Grief: Can Our Animals Help Us Heal After Loss? Pets and Grief: Can Our Animals Help Us Heal After Loss? Pets and Grief: Can Our Animals Help Us Heal After Loss? \| TAPS Stephanie Frogge When the TAPS Helpline staff has a chance to connect every few days, we share information and updates, and we check in with each other — how are you, how is the week going, how is your family? And we know that family most definitely includes Niki’s 40-pound bulldog mutt who thinks she’s a lap dog, Maggie; my own Luna Cat, who is only sociable when I’m on Zo
Audio: Ted Leionsis Interview: MSE Foundation Launches Wizards Courage Caps program Sponsored by Telos Ted Leionsis Interview: MSE Foundation Launches Wizards Courage Caps program Sponsored by Telos Ted Leionsis Interview: MSE Foundation Launches Wizards Courage Caps program Sponsored by Telos WTOP Ted Leonsis discusses the inaugural Washington Wizards Courage Program, which launches on Nov. 8 when the team hosts the Brooklyn Nets at the Verizon Center. Hats with the word “Courage” written in the Wizards’ wordmark will go on sale with 100% of the proceeds benefiting TAPS.The program is produce
One Step at a Time One Step at a Time One Step at a Time Jennifer Freitas "Pole, Pole." "Slowly, slowly." It wasn't a race to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, but rather an exercise in continually putting one foot in front of the other on the six-day ascent. Our guides, who had walked this same path hundreds of times, knew the best way for us to arrive at the summit, and reach our goal, was to go slowly, deliberately. Along with nine other intrepid explorers, I set out on the TAPS Expedition to climb Mount Kili
Photos: Team TAPS Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Windy25 Memorial Fund 5K Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (13 photos) taps fundraiser, photos, honor the fallen Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS fundraiser held April 15, 2023 at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas to honor the legacy of our courageous heroes and in tribute to the Windy25 flight.
Photos: teams4taps USA Swimming teams4taps and USA Swimming teams4taps and USA Swimming Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (10 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor teams4taps and USA Swimming \| TAPS Flickr Album Event Photos: Torri Huske, member of the USA Swimming National Team meets with families of the fallen with teams4taps on December 14, 2023.
Photos: Expedition California TAPS and Outward Bound Backpacking Expedition Outward Bound Backpacking Expedition Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (56 photos) photos, military survivor, Point Reyes National Seashore Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Survivors learn to trust their guides, their gear, their team and their-selves backpacking at Point Reyes National Seashore on March 9 to 12, 2020.
Webinar: Grief Support for Military Children Webinar: Grief Support for Military Children - A Guide for School Personnel Webinar: Grief Support for Military Children TAPS TAPS is honored to host, through the sponsorship of the American Hospice Foundation, a webinar for school professionals and all those who work with school aged children. Select image below to play webinar. taps professionals, webinar on child grief Webinar: Grief Support for Military Children Video Container Block This webinar is in support of National Suicide Preven
Breaking Away from Loneliness Breaking Away from Loneliness Breaking Away from Loneliness \| TAPS Emily Munoz Grief is inherently about interrupted connection. We are separated from someone we love. Loneliness, then, is logical. I just didn’t expect it to show up, years after the searing had turned to scarring. When it did, it was because, in my early grief, I leaned so much into the hope that the universe still held joy and purpose for me, that eventually this would all make sense. But loneliness showed up, clutching
Boxes in the Attic: Part Two Boxes in the Attic: Part Two Boxes in the Attic: Part Two Betsy Beard You Can’t Take It With You It is said that one of the tasks of grieving is to relocate the loved one from being a physical presence to that of residing in our hearts and memories. It is not an easy task. And we really don’t want to do it. We just want them to come home and walk in the door. And after a few years, we get it. They’re not coming home. They won’t be watching this movie, reading that book, or wearing those clo
Mustering the Courage to Mourn Mustering the Courage to Mourn Mustering the Courage to Mourn Alan Wolfelt "Whatever you do, you need courage." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson Loss brings uninvited pain into our lives. In opening to the presence of the pain of your loss, in acknowledging the inevitability of the pain, in being willing to gently embrace the pain, you demonstrate the courage to honor the pain. Honoring means recognizing the value of and respecting. It is not instinctive to see grief as something to honor, yet the c
Military Mentor of the Year: Captain John Rhoten TAPS Military Mentor of the Year: Captain John Rhoten TAPS Military Mentor of the Year: Captain John Rhoten TAPS Walking Alongside the Children of America’s Fallen Heroes John Rhoten, a native of Stafford, Virginia, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2002. Since that time he has deployed to Iraq twice and Afghanistan twice. John started in the Infantry and is currently a Military Intelligence officer. He is married and has two daughters. Currently, he serves at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii with the
Spotlight on Service: Barb Christie Spotlight on Service: Barb Christie Spotlight on Service: Barb Christie TAPS Barb Christie knows the military. She began her 20 year career in the Air Force as an air traffic control officer. And while she spent the last four years of her career doing program and budget planning at the Pentagon, along the way she served as Executive Officer to a number of general officers, held the post of squadron section commander and filled the role of Base Director of Administration. Barb retire
TAPS Suicide Survivor Seminar TAPS Suicide Survivor Seminar TAPS Suicide Survivor Seminar TAPS A place of healing and support Reprinted with permission from TIME Magazine’s Battleland Blog. Rebecca Morrison is one of two widows TIME Magazine featured in its July cover story on the surge in Army suicides. My New Family Thursday morning I bounced out of bed early and yelled “Oh my gosh!” I never get up on time and certainly never bounce. But this morning I knew that I would be headed to California for the TAPS sem
Photos: teams4taps Cavaliers teams4taps Cleveland Cavaliers Hoops for Troops Cleveland Cavaliers Hoops for Troops \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (25 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Cleveland Cavaliers Hoops for Troops in Cleveland, Ohio on November 5, 2019.
Photos: teams4taps Grizzlies teams4taps Memphis Grizzlies Hoops for Troops Memphis Grizzlies Hoops for Troops \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (13 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Memphis Grizzlies Hoops for Troops in Memphis, Tennessee on November 9, 2019.
Photos: teams4taps Nets teams4taps Brooklyn Nets Hoops for Troops Practice Brooklyn Nets Hoops for Troops Practice \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (51 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS Families attended the Brooklyn Nets Hoops for Troops Practice in Brooklyn, New York on November 6, 2019.
Photos: teams4taps Redskins teams4taps Washington Redskins Honors for Way Family Washington Redskins Honors for Jordon Way Family \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (19 photos) teams4taps, photos, military survivor Flickr Album Event Photos: Way family attend the Washington Redskins Honors for Jordon Way on August 29, 2019.
Photos: Dancing for TAPS Dancing for TAPS Dancing for TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (56 photos) photos, taps supporter, military salute Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS supporters raise money April 20 at Dancing with Friends Dance Studio in Churchville, Maryland.
Video: TAPS Kids Create Decorations for White House Christmas Trees Video: TAPS Kids Create Decorations for White House Christmas Trees Video: TAPS Kids Create Decorations for White House Christmas Trees \| TAPS TAPS Media TAPS children are proud to honor their fallen military hero for this year's White House Christmas trees. This holiday, TAPS celebrates the lives of those who have served and died. Learn more about TAPS Youth Programs. Select image below to play. military survivor, coping during the holidays TAPS children are proud to honor their fall
TAPS and Jon Stewart Launch New Center for Hope and Healing Connecting Vets: TAPS and Jon Stewart Launch New Center for Hope and Healing Connecting Vets: TAPS and Jon Stewart Launch New Center for Hope and Healing\| TAPS In the News Phil Briggs News Source: Connecting Vets friends of taps, donor news, honor the fallen TAPS and Jon Stewart Launch New Center for Hope and Healing Families grieving the loss of a military loved one have a new place to go to heal that wound, a sort-of hospital of the heart: TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing.
Video: Wellness Techniques for Reducing Stress and Anxiety Video: Wellness Techniques for Reducing Stress and Anxiety Video: Wellness Techniques for Reducing Stress and Anxiety Webinar \| TAPS Institute Neil Goodman In this recording of the webinar, you will be introduced to several powerful wellness tools, such as Mindfulness Meditation, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and the Heart Coherence procedure from the HeartMath Institute. These are keys to reducing the components of debilitating stress and can led to improved health and wellness during t
TAPS Partners with the Cohen Veterans Network to Provide Specialized Mental Health Support to Save Lives Houston Chronicles: TAPS Partners with the Cohen Veterans Network to Provide Specialized Mental Health Support to Save Lives Houston Chronicles: TAPS Partners with the Cohen Veterans Network to Provide Specialized Mental Health Support to Save Lives \| TAPS In the News PRWeb News Source: Houston Chronicles suicide prevention, military veteran, donor news, honor the fallen TAPS Partners with the Cohen Veterans Network to Provide Specialized Mental Health Support to Save Lives TAPS Red Team
Promises Promises Promises Linda Ambard Sometimes I feel like a poser playing a part upon the stage. This isn't supposed to be my life. At times, times like now, I can barely recognize the girl I have become. The person I have become was so far from my realm of possibility that it literally brings me to my knees at times. How could a quiet homebody become the girl with a voice? How is it that I am considered to be a subject matter expert in military loss and resiliency when my life before was bei
Video: TAPS: Helping Families of Fallen Troops TAPS: Helping Families of Fallen Troops TAPS: Helping Families of Fallen Troops TAPS Media (TAPS) is the national organization providing compassionate care for the families of America's fallen military heroes and has offered support to more than 44,000 surviving family members of our fallen military and their caregivers since 1994. TAPS provides peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, case work assistance
United States and United Kingdom Families Gather in London for Friendship and Football U.S. and U.K. Families Gather in London for Friendship and Football United States and United Kingdom Families Gather in London for Friendship and Football \| TAPS TAPS taps international, military, survivor, child grief, honoring the fallen 2018 October US and UK Surviving families unite to honor loved ones who served in the American and British Armed Forces and catch some American football action.
Video: Tools and Tips for Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual Care after a Suicide Death Video: Tools and Tips for Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual Care after a Suicide Death Tools and Tips for Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual Care after a Suicide Death Webinar \| TAPS Institute Carla Stumpf Patton Andy McNiel The death of a family member or friend from suicide has a profound impact on our lives. Grief can be overwhelming, disruptive, and consume our thoughts, emotions, and spirit. This webinar will provide a context for understanding how grief impacts our lives and provide helpful too
Photos: teams4taps Magic teams4taps and the Orlando Magic Hoops for Troops teams4taps with the Orlando Magic Hoops for Troops Photos \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (13 photos) //
Photos: teams4taps Ravens Seats for Service teams4taps Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service TAPS at Baltimore Ravens Seats for Service \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (30 photos) //
Video: TAPS Provides Comfort & Hope Video: TAPS Provides Comfort & Hope Video: TAPS Provides Comfort & Hope \| TAPS TAPS Media The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is the national organization for all those grieving the death of a military or veteran loved one. Learn more about the TAPS Mission. Select image below to play. the mission of TAPS, military survivor, gold star families, gold star families The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is the national organization for all those grieving the death of a mi
Video: TAPS is Here for Military Survivors Video: TAPS is Here for Military Survivors Video: TAPS is Here for Military Survivors TAPS Media The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) provides compassionate care to all those grieving the death of a military loved one, no matter when, where or how the death took place. TAPS impact on our nation's surviving families has transformed lives. No matter waht, no matter when, TAPS is there. Select image below to play. taps mission, gold star families, hope and healing from grief
Video: Meditation for Uncertain Times TAPS Talks Video: Meditation for Uncertain Times Video: Meditation for Uncertain Times \| TAPS Institute Heather Stang This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Heather Stang allows participants to experience the power of RAIN meditation to ease difficult emotions. Select image below to play the video. webinar, video, meditation, coronavirus fears, grief and loss education Boeing Sponsor of Institute and Suicide Loss This video recording
Video: Strategies for Healthy Eating TAPS Talks Video: Strategies for Healthy Eating Video: Strategies for Healthy Eating \| TAPS Institute Kristen McGill This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Kristen McGill, discusses setting healthy and realistic goals, planning meals, and tying it all together in the kitchen. Select image below to play the video. webinar, video, healthy eating, coronavirus fears, remarriage, grief and loss education Boeing Sponsor of Institute and Sui
Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll \| TAPS Bonnie Carroll The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) President and Founder Bonnie Carroll sends her well wishes to all military survivors this Thanksgiving 2020. TAPS is a family here for you, offering comfort, care and understanding. We stand together. You are NOT alone. Select image below to play. thinking of you at thanksgiving, america's fallen heroes, help for milita
Who is Memorial Day For? Who is Memorial Day For? Who is Memorial Day For? \| TAPS Bonnie Carroll Who is Memorial Day for? It's for all of us. It's for all Americans to remember we enjoy our many freedoms because of a brave few who dedicated their lives to this country and who died much too soon from wounds seen and unseen. Many are easily confused by the various holidays honoring military service members. There's a day for those who have served (Veterans Day), one for those who are currently serving (Armed Forces
Video: Flip the Script on Children's Grief Video: Flip the Script on Children's Grief Video: Flip the Script on Children's Grief \| TAPS TAPS Media Child Grief Awareness: One in 13 children by the time they are age 18, will experience the death of a parent or sibling. TAPS wants to flip the script on childhood grief. There is a myth in our society: out of sight, out of mind. By not engaging children in their grief, we leave them to grief alone. Engage children in your life that are grieving, check in with them, let them know you care a
TAPS Recognizes author and CNN anchor Jake Tapper at Book Signing Event TAPS Recognizes author and CNN anchor Jake Tapper at Book Signing Event TAPS Recognizes author and CNN anchor Jake Tapper at Book Signing Event TAPS On Wednesday evening, TAPS brought together 60 special guests with CNN anchor and author Jake Tapper at a reception and signing of Tapper’s critically acclaimed book, The Outpost: An Untold Story of American Valor. Bonnie Carroll introduced Tapper and showed a compelling video about TAPS and the impact TAPS services have on the families of Americ
Video: Engaging Empathy in the Workplace - A Guide for Grievers Video: Engaging Empathy in the Workplace - A Guide for Grievers Engaging Empathy in the Workplace - A Guide for Grievers Webinar \| TAPS Institute Rachel Kodanaz Often a sad employee is perceived to be a bad employee, yet all employees will cope with sadness and grief due to death and non-death loss at some point in their career. An employee who is overwhelmed by grief often feels a discouraging lack of support when transitioning back to the workplace, whether their return is in-person or virt
Video: TAPS Thanks Gillette and the NFL for their Support Video: TAPS Thanks Gillette and the NFL for their Support Video: TAPS Thanks Gillette and the NFL for their Support \| TAPS TAPS Media At the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), we understand that the families of fallen military and veteran service members will carry their losses forever. As they grow, surviving children will miss the parent they lost at grand milestones — like birthdays and graduations, but at those quiet milestones as well — learning to tie shoes, shave, and all
Independence is Happiness Independence is Happiness Independence is Happiness \| TAPS International Bushra Farkish TAPS International, Afghanistan withdrawal, war, military families Independence Freedom is priceless. It should never be taken for granted. My wish for Afghanistan is the feeling of freedom I have found in America.
Video: Asking for Help When You Are Grieving Video: Asking for Help When You Are Grieving Asking for Help When You Are Grieving Webinar \| TAPS Institute Kenneth Doka There are many reasons it can be difficult to ask for help when we need it, and grief can make it more challenging. There could be fear that we are bothering someone with our problems. Maybe grief has taken too much energy and we can't figure out what we need or how to reach out. If a prior request for help or support was met with unhelpful or hurtful responses, we may hesi
Video: From Grief to Peace - Journaling for Life After Loss Video: From Grief to Peace - Journaling for Life After Loss From Grief to Peace - Journaling for Life After Loss Webinar \| TAPS Institute Heather Stang Journaling does more than simply record your day-to-day experience; it helps you organize your thoughts, process traumatic events, and find meaning through your lived experience. The many health benefits of journaling supported by science include reduction in symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and trauma; improved memory; and increa
Video: Grief in the Holidays: Finding Meaning and Hope as a Family Video: Grief in the Holidays - Finding Meaning and Hope as a Family Video: Grief in the Holidays - Finding Meaning and Hope as a Family Webinar \| TAPS Institute Andy McNiel Adorned with lights, bright colors, and stories of good cheer, the holidays can stand in stark contrast to the sorrow experienced by those grieving the death of a loved one while also raising children or teenagers. While adults may be anticipating the holidays with apprehension, children, even when grieving, often look for
Videos: 2020 Health and Wellness Sessions Videos: 2020 Health and Wellness Sessions Videos: 2020 Virtual Military Survivor Seminar Health and Wellness Sessions \| TAPS TAPS Media video, health and wellness, yoga, artful grief, relaxation techniques 2020 National Seminar Wellness Recordings Created for the 2020 Virtual National Military Survivor Seminar, these leading experts in self-care share methods of healing for body, mind, and soul.
Widows Write for TIME's Battleland Blog Widows Write for TIME's Battleland Blog Widows Write for TIME's Battleland Blog TAPS Widows Write for TIME's Battleland Blog About Experiences at This Weekend's TAPS National Military Suicide Survivor Seminar Widows Rebecca Morrison and Leslie McCaddon are blogging for TIME.com's Battleland blog about their experiences at the TAPS National Military Suicide Survivor Seminar and Good Grief Camp in San Diego this weekend. Hundreds of survivors are attending this event for care and support, an
Photos: Young Adult Louisville Young Adult Louisville Experience Young Adult Military Survivor Louisville Experience \| TAPS TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (80 photos) habitat for humanity, taps young adult, photos Flickr Album Event Photos: TAPS young adult survivors work on Habitat for Humanity project and enjoy outdoor adventures together July 10-11, 2018.
Deadlines Nearing to Save on College Costs Deadlines Nearing to Save on College Costs Deadlines Nearing to Save on College Costs TAPS After the death of a loved one, the financial commitment of attending college may seem daunting. However, the financial burden can be lifted with the help of scholarships available to surviving family members from various federal, state and private organizations. TAPS is here to assist eligible survivors to gain access to these education benefit resources. Graduation is around the corner. It is time
Video: Helping Grievers Draw Boundaries Video: Helping Grievers Draw Boundaries Helping Grievers Draw Boundaries Webinar \| TAPS Institute Joy Berger It’s often said that grief is hard work, so adding the job of setting boundaries to a griever’s to-do list can feel overwhelming. Yet the importance of setting healthy boundaries in grief – with relatives, friends, co-workers, and even with social media – has a clinical foundation based in well-known contemporary grief theories. Join Dr. Berger in exploring ways to empower grieving per
Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll \| TAPS Bonnie Carroll Thanksgiving can be a challenging time for those who have an empty seat at their table. As we celebrate, we honor and remember the lives lived, we remember the blessings that have been given to us by those we loved, and we know that love transcends this physical life. Your TAPS Family is here for you and you are not alone. If you or someone you know needs our support, the TAP
Video: Going through Crisis Survive and Thrive TAPS Talks Video: Going through Crisis Survive and Thrive Video: Going through Crisis Survive and Thrive \| TAPS Institute Eric Hipple Former National Football League quarterback Eric Hipple will share his strategies for building resilience and offer tips (like the ones he shares with current Lions' players) for staying mentally and physically healthy during these challenging times. This live connection is recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing.® Select image below to play the
Video: Love After Loss (for Men) Video: Love After Loss (for Men) Video: Love After Loss (for Men) \| TAPS Institute Justin Yopp Warren Pellegrin This webinar, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Dr. Justin Yopp and Peer Mentor Warren Pellegrin, discusses how surviving spouses can find ways to honor their spouse or partner who has died while also choosing to love again. Select image below to play the video. Webinar Slides Love After Loss (for Men) (PDF) webinar, video, women dating ag
Video: Love After Loss (for Women) Video: Love After Loss (for Women) Video: Love After Loss (for Women) \| TAPS Institute Carla Stumpf Patton Susan Starnes This webinar, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Dr. Carla Stumpf-Patton and Ms. Susan Starnes, discusses how bereaved female survivors can learn to honor their spouse or intimate partner who has died while also embracing new relationships and choosing to love again. Select image below to play the video. Webinar Slides Love After Los
Video: Managing Substance Use during this Challenging Time TAPS Talks Video: Managing Substance Use during this Challenging Time Video: Managing Substance Use during this Challenging Time \| TAPS Institute Franklin Cook With people facing additional stress and isolation, concerns about substance use and self-medication are real. This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Franklin Cook, MA, CPC, addresses these concerns of substance use, whether for yourself or for a loved one. Select image below to
Video: Meditation for Coping with Difficult Emotions Video: Meditation for Coping with Difficult Emotions Video: Meditation for Coping with Difficult Emotions \| TAPS Institute Heather Stang This webinar was recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by with Heather Stang, MA, C-IATY. This video recording of the webinar discusses how the physical sensation of emotion can be your ally during tough times and even provide you with inner wisdom and insight. This technique can be applied during a regular meditation practice,
Video: Photographing Grief Video: Photographing Grief Video: Photographing Grief \| TAPS Institute Litsa Williams Eleanor Haley This workshop was recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® at TAPS Headquarters in Arlington, Virginia and presented by What's Your Grief co-founders Litsa Williams and Eleanor Haley. This video recording of the workshop presents photography techniques and exercises for exploring and expressing your grief story. It is appropriate for anyone interested in using photography as a creat
Video: TAPS and NFL Partner for Salute to Service Video: TAPS and NFL Partner for Salute to Service Video: TAPS and NFL Partner for Salute to Service TAPS Media Salute to Service is a year-round effort to Honor, Empower, and Connect our nation's service members, veterans, and their families. Since 2017, TAPS has been one of the NFL's military nonprofit partners. We are grateful to the league and clubs across the country for honoring and remembering our fallen military heroes and their families as part of the NFL Salute to Service. See all TA
Variety of Events Available for Surviving Military Children Variety of Events Available for Surviving Military Children Variety of Events Available for Surviving Military Children TAPS TAPS Youth Programs has many great events to support surviving military children in 2017. At each of these events, children are paired with military mentors — active duty, reserve or National Guard service members or recent veterans who volunteer their time to create bonds with surviving military children and help them learn coping skills. We hope your child will jo
Movie Review: "Thank You For Your Service" May Be Triggering and Emotional for Military Survivors Movie Review: "Thank You For Your Service" May Be Triggering and Emotional for Military Survivors "Thank You For Your Service" May Be Triggering and Emotional for Military Survivors TAPS TAPS appreciates those who seek to tell the story of military families, from the impact of combat service for the veteran to the broader impact on families bereaved by a military death. We strive to incorporate a trauma-informed approach to care for our military families who have suffered a loss. Recent
5 Tips Surviving Military Families Need to Know as They Prepare for College 5 Tips Surviving Military Families Need to Know as They Prepare for College 5 Tips Surviving Military Families Need to Know as They Prepare for College \| TAPS Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann In 2002, I lost my dad while he was training to deploy to Iraq. I was 10 years old. College was the last thing on my mind, and it was not high on my mother's priority list either. Years later, as I opened the mailbox and pulled out “the big envelope” from American University, I knew my dad would have been obnox
Video: Finding Meaning in Afghanistan Video: Finding Meaning in Afghanistan Finding Meaning in Afghanistan Webinar \| TAPS Institute TAPS International The true lessons of war are not in what our warriors died for but for what, and for whom, they lived. ~ Bonnie Carroll, President and Founder, TAPS The last several weeks have been heartbreaking for the people of Afghanistan, the military men and women who served, their families, our nation, and the world. Join TAPS for a panel discussion and hear from different voices on how the
Video: Grief River - A Nature-Inspired Map for Understanding Grief and Loss Video: Grief River - A Nature-Inspired Map for Understanding Grief and Loss Video: Grief River - A Nature-Inspired Map for Understanding Grief and Loss \| TAPS Institute Thom Dennis This webinar was recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Dr. Thom Dennis, DMin, LCPC, CT. It looks at how to navigate our way through the waves of grief with the agility of a seasoned kayaker. This program invites participants to consider their most recent loss in the context of the e
Video: CNN's Home Front - Remembering Veterans Who Died by Suicide Video: CNN's Home Front - Remembering Veterans Who Died by Suicide Video: CNN's Home Front - Remembering Veterans Who Died by Suicide \| TAPS CNN Kim Ruocco, Vice President of TAPS Suicide Prevention and Postvention and widow of Marine Corps Major John Ruocco, and Nicole Langhorst, TAPS Survivor Care Team and sister of Army Staff Sergeant Michelle Langhorst, remember the heroic lives their loved ones lived with CNN's Brianna Keilar on this Memorial Day 2020. Find suicide loss support at www.t
Video: Gala Highlights 2019 Video: Gala Highlights 2019 Honor Guard Gala \| TAPS TAPS Media The 2019 TAPS Honor Guard Gala, held on March 6 at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C., celebrating 25 years of service to families of America's Fallen Heroes, with those who help make TAPS mission possible. Featuring remarks from General Paul Selva, USAF, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Michael Neidorff, Centene Chairman and CEO; General Martin Dempsey, USA (Ret), 18th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staf
TAPS Makes Access to Education Benefits Easier TAPS Makes Access to Education Benefits Easier TAPS Makes Access to Education Benefits Easier TAPS 2016 has been an incredible year for TAPS Education Services. With new staff on board we have been able to support more than 500 surviving families in accessing college education through the VA, state waivers and private scholarships. The education program took it on the road for presentations to parents and students at TAPS National and Regional Seminars and at Snowball Express. TAPS partnersh
Video: Bonnie Carroll Memorial Day Message Video: Memorial Day Message from Bonnie Carroll, TAPS President and Founder Video: Memorial Day Message from Bonnie Carroll, TAPS President and Founder \| TAPS TAPS Media For all of us in the TAPS family, every day is our Memorial Day. As military survivors, we are our loved ones living legacies. TAPS is here for you, we are a family, we hold you close in our hearts now and always. Select image below to play. remember the fallen, memorial day For all of us in the TAPS family, every da
Video: How TAPS cares for Surviving Military Children Video: How TAPS cares for Surviving Military Children Video: How TAPS cares for Surviving Military Children TAPS Media At TAPS, we provide care and support to surviving military children and our model of care at TAPS Youth Programs is based on extensive research and experience. Learn more at TAPS Youth Programs. Select image below to play. child grief, grief camp TAPS provides care and support to surviving military children and our model of care at TAPS Youth Programs is based on ext
Video: TAPS Family Camps for Surviving Military Families Video: TAPS Family Camps for Surviving Military Families Video: TAPS Family Camps for Surviving Military Families \| TAPS TAPS Media At TAPS we believe that to fully support surviving military children, we need to support the whole family. At our Family Camps we provide care, support, and a lot of fun to help improve communication and family dynamics. Learn more at TAPS Youth Programs. Select image below to play. taps family camps, child grief, grief camp At our Family Camps we provide
Video: For TAPS Families Every Day is Memorial Day Video: For TAPS Families Every Day is Memorial Day Video: For TAPS Families Every Day is Memorial Day \| TAPS News Skyler Henry TAPS Military Surviving Families come together Memorial Day weekend 2021 in Washington, D.C. Military Surviving spouse Lesliee Ojeda shares her experience as a survivor but also as a counselor helping others heal. Video by Skyler Henry of CBS News in Washington Select image below to play. remember the fallen, memorial day Military Surviving spouse Lesliee Ojed
Video: Thinking of you on Independence Day Video: Thinking of you on Independence Day Video: Thinking of you on Independence Day, Message from Bonnie Carroll \| TAPS Bonnie Carroll This 4th of July, we thank you for your loved one's service to this country in defense of the freedoms we celebrate today. Select image below to play. July 4, america's fallen heroes, help for military families This 4th of July, we thank you for your loved one's service to this country in defense of the freedoms we celebrate today.
Love Lives On Virtual Show & Auction to benefit the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors Love Lives On Virtual Show & Auction to benefit the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors Love Lives On Virtual Show & Auction to benefit the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors \| TAPS News The Villager TAPS supporter news, Colorado Celebrity Classic The Villager September 17 2020 Celebrity Classic to Benefit TAPS offers a virtual event of music, and live, silent and Fund-A-Mission auctions. Love Lives On is live online Friday, October 2, 2020.
Video: The Smart thing and the Right thing are usually the Same thing TAPS Talks Video: The Smart thing and the Right thing are usually the Same thing Video: The Smart thing and the Right thing are usually the Same thing \| TAPS Institute Robert Delaney This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Robert J. Delaney, explores strategies for navigating today's world. Select image below to play the video. Resource Guide Game of Life (PDF) webinar, video, grief and loss education Boeing Sponsor of Institute
Photos: TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers for Military Survivors TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (19 photos) taps togethers, survivors Flickr Album Event Photos: 2024 TAPS Togethers
TAPS Survivor Newsletter November 2024 TAPS Survivor Newsletter November 2024 TAPS Survivor Newsletter November 2024 TAPS Media Tips for Grievers During the Holidays A typically joyous time of year may include added stress and complicated emotions for the bereaved. We've compiled a few reminders to carry with you throughout the season. In this issue: Tips for Grievers During the Holidays Share Your TAPS Togethers: Friendsgiving Experience 2025 NFL Pro Bowl Experience Understanding How Our Children Grieve Past Events
Video: TAPS Statement for the Record April 10 Video: TAPS Statement for the Record Video: TAPS Statement for the Record presented on April 10, 2024 \| TAPS News Candace Wheeler TAPS Media Candace Wheeler, Director, TAPS Government and Legislative Affairs presents TAPS Statement for the Record on issues of importance to the 120,000-plus surviving family members of all ages, representing all services, and with losses from all causes who TAPS is honored to serve at the April 10, 2024 Legislative Hearing before the House Committee on Veterans’
Video: TAPS Statement for the Record July 10 Video: TAPS Statement for the Record Video: TAPS Statement for the Record presented on July 10, 2024 \| TAPS News Candace Wheeler TAPS Media Candace Wheeler, Director, TAPS Government and Legislative Affairs presents TAPS Statement for the Record on issues of importance to the 120,000-plus surviving family members of all ages, representing all services, and with losses from all causes who TAPS is honored to serve at the July 10, 2024 Legislative Hearing before the House Committee on Veterans’ A
Video: Transformative Mentoring: Promoting Growth and Healing through Restorative Relationships Video: Transformative Mentoring: Promoting Growth and Healing through Restorative Relationships Transformative Mentoring: Promoting Growth and Healing through Restorative Relationships Webinar \| TAPS Institute Karl Hillway Mentoring transforms lives and yields positive impacts on all involved. In the face of their own traumatic experiences Active Duty and Veteran Service Members find growth, hope and healing through mentoring bereaved children of military loss. Join us for a panel discussion
Video: Remember the Families of the Fallen this Memorial Day Video: Remember the Families of the Fallen this Memorial Day Video: Remember the Families of the Fallen this Memorial Day \| TAPS TAPS Media "Who is Memorial Day for? It's for all of us. It's for all Americans to remember we enjoy our many freedoms because of a brave few who dedicated their lives to this country and who died much too soon from wounds seen and unseen." ~ Bonnie Carroll, TAPS President and Founder Learn more about the TAPS Mission and ways to support TAPS. Select image below t
Video: Supporting Our Kids, Supporting Ourselves Video: Supporting Our Kids, Supporting Ourselves Supporting Our Kids, Supporting Ourselves Webinar \| TAPS Institute Tina Barrett Each of us responds to loss in our own unique ways. As parents, we often find ourselves in the challenging role as the primary support for children amidst our own profound grief. Further complicating the dynamic, our personal way of grieving may be quite different than how our children grieve. This interactive workshop will explore Darcie Sims's four grief styles an
Video: Mindfulness as Your Superpower Video: Mindfulness as Your Superpower Video: Mindfulness as Your Superpower Webinar \| TAPS Institute Jill Harrington-LaMorie Heather Stang Mindfulness isn’t just for naturally calm people. It is a superpower that can help us cope with the most challenging emotions—even grief. Using superhero case examples, during this workshop, you will learn how mindfulness can help you navigate loss, improve your health, and cultivate much-needed compassion for your grieving heart. This video was recorded a
Video: Holiday Message from Bonnie Carroll and TAPS Video: Holiday Message from Bonnie Carroll and TAPS Video: Holiday Message from Bonnie Carroll and TAPS Bonnie Carroll With a message of love and care, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) President and Founder Bonnie Carroll, sends you a warm holiday greeting . Your TAPS Family is here for you, with comfort, support and resources every day of the year. This holiday and always, you are not alone. Select image below to play. thinking of you at christmas, america's fallen h
Video: Meditation and Self-Care for Stressful Times TAPS Talks Video: Meditation and Self-Care for Stressful Times Video: Meditation and Self-Care for Stressful Times \| TAPS Institute Heather Stang This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Heather Stang, MA, C-IATY, discusses how the physical sensation of emotion can be your ally during tough times and even provide you with inner wisdom and insight. This technique can be applied during a regular meditation practice, or on-the-spot in real life
Video: Strategies for Coping When You are Feeling Isolated TAPS Talks Video: Strategies for Coping When You are Feeling Isolated Video: Strategies for Coping When You are Feeling Isolated \| TAPS Institute Dale Larson Grief can bring feelings of loneliness, and today’s current reality may be adding to that feeling of isolation. This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Dale Larson, PhD, shares some ways to cope with those feelings and invite participants to share their suggestions. . Select image
Video: TAPS and VA Partner Together for Veteran Benefits Video: TAPS and VA Partner Together for Veteran Benefits Video: TAPS and VA Partner Together for Veteran Benefits TAPS Media The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) share a common commitment. They ensure that those who have served their nation, and their families, receive the support, care, information and resources they need. Through a strong partnership and collaborative spirit, TAPS and the VA work together to honor our nation's lega
Video: Too Close for Comfort - Mental Health and Wellness During Changing Family Dynamics TAPS Talks Video: Too Close for Comfort - Mental Health and Wellness During Changing Family Dynamics Video: Too Close for Comfort - Mental Health and Wellness During Changing Family Dynamics \| TAPS Institute Kim Ruocco Carla Stumpf Patton This live connection, recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Kim Ruocco and Carla Stumf-Patton, discusses how to maintain mental health and wellness during changes in the family dynamics. Select image below to play the video.
Video: Loss, Grief, and the Quest for Meaning Video: Loss, Grief, and the Quest for Meaning Video: Loss, Grief, and the Quest for Meaning \| TAPS Institute Robert Neimeyer This webinar was recorded by the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing® and presented by Robert A. Neimeyer, PhD. This video recording of the workshop discusses how to help us understand how growth can come from grief, despite the emotional challenges that mourning brings. Select image below to play the video. webinar, video, meditation, grief and loss education Bo
Inaugural Parade TAPS Marches in Inaugural Parade TAPS Marches in Inaugural Parade TAPS Nearly 200 surviving military family members joined TAPS in the Inaugural Parade for the 45th President of the United States Donald J. Trump on Friday, January 20, 2017. The families took part in the parade to honor their loved ones, carrying photos of their fallen heroes on TAPS paddle fans and wearing photo buttons as they marched down Constitution Avenue. For Deborah Whitaker, surviving mother of SSG Dustin Whitaker, l
Video: A Man For Others: The Erik Kristensen Story Video: A Man For Others: The Erik Kristensen Story A Man For Others: The Erik Kristensen Story CBS Sports A SEAL in Birkenstocks teams4taps and CBS Sports paid tribute to United States Naval Academy graduate and fallen U.S. Navy SEAL, LCDR Erik S. Kristensen (Class of '96), and honored his parents at the October 7, 2017 Navy vs. Air Force game. LCDR Erik S. Kristensen, teams4taps, honor the fallen A Man For Others: The Erik Kristensen Story Video Container Main Content 2 teams4taps and CBS
Books for the Holidays 2014 Books for the Holidays 2014 Books for the Holidays 2014 Betsy Beard The winter holidays, with their emphasis on miracles and gifts, are difficult for those who grieve. While the hearts of others are lifted in merriment, our hearts seem to grow heavier with thoughts of our loved one and the gaping hole they left in our lives. Here are some books that can help fill the void and bring extra support at this time of year. Thoughts for the Holidays, By Doug Manning As a counselor
Photos: TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers for Military Survivors TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (79 photos) taps togethers, survivors Flickr Album Event Photos: 2021 TAPS Togethers
Photos: TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers TAPS Togethers for Military Survivors TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (348 photos) taps togethers, survivors Flickr Album Event Photos: 2019 TAPS Togethers
Summer Good Grief Camp Opportunities Summer Good Grief Camp Opportunities Summer Good Grief Camp Opportunities TAPS Make Summer Plans Now This summer, TAPS has space for more than 80 surviving children from around the country to gather in California and North Carolina for two Good Grief Campouts and an inaugural teen hiking adventure in the Cumberland area of Maryland and Pennsylvania. Away from the familiarity of daily life, and without the distractions of electronics, connections center around shared experiences, special m
Photos: Representative Dean Phillips Meets Military Survivors and TAPS Staff Representative Dean Phillips Meets Military Survivors and TAPS Staff Representative Dean Phillips Meets Military Survivors and TAPS Staff Photos TAPS Media Download and view more high resolution images on Flickr » (28 photos) taps honor guard gala, photos Flickr Album Event Photos: Representative Dean Phillips was selected for the 2023 Ted Stevens Leadership Award for his commitment to surviving military families.
Colorado Celebrity Classic Raises over $330,000 for TAPS Colorado Celebrity Classic Raises over $330,000 for TAPS Colorado Celebrity Classic Raises over $330,000 for TAPS Christine Burtt The Colorado Celebrity Classic hosted its 14th Annual Saluting Our Fallen Heroes Dinner & Songwriters Show on Saturday, June 16, 2018 at the Grove Family Ranch in Centennial, Colorado. About 518 guests enjoyed an evening of fun and music and raised more than $330,000 for TAPS. Headliner Pam Tillis, a two-time Grammy and Country Music Award winner and daughter
Yuengling Lagers for Heroes Salute Veterans and Their Families Yuengling Lagers for Heroes Salute Veterans and Their Families Yuengling Lagers for Heroes Salute Veterans and Their Families \| TAPS TAPS TAPS is proud to have the support of America's Oldest Brewery, D.G. Yuengling & Son during the month of May as together we raise a toast to honor our military heroes. Fiercely independent for nearly 190 years, Yuengling is thankful and proud of the brave and dedicated service men and women who make tremendous sacrifices and represent our country's freedom,
Video: Hope, Help and Healing Video: Hope, Help and Healing TAPS \| Hope, Help and Healing TAPS Media When someone dies in the military, TAPS is there to care for everyone who is grieving, forever, with resources and support. Select image below to play. military survivor, healing, grief Hope, Help and Healing Hope Help Healing Video When someone dies in the military, TAPS is there to care for everyone who is grieving, forever, with resources and support.
Military Mentors Available for all Surviving Children Military Mentors Available for all Surviving Children Military Mentors Available for all Surviving Children TAPS Through the TAPS Military Mentor Program, TAPS connects grieving military children with individual military mentors - service members from every branch of the Armed Forces who volunteer their time to provide individual support. Children connect to their mentors at the TAPS Good Grief Camps, which are held throughout the year all across the country. The goal of the program is to
Education Support Services Education Support Services Education Support Services Ashlynne Haycock-Lohmann My dad, Sergeant First Class Jeffrey Haycock, died while training to deploy in 2002 when I was only ten years old. Education was extremely important to him; he actually made me learn all fifty states and their capitals before I started kindergarten. Pursuing a higher education was not optional; his kids would go to college. When he died, attaining his dreams for us seemed uncertain. I always knew, though, that I wo
Video: About the TAPS Peer Mentor Program About the TAPS Peer Mentor Program About the TAPS Peer Mentor Program TAPS Media The TAPS peer mentoring program connects surviving families of our fallen troops with each other for companionship and support. Mentors are trained and at least 1-2 years beyond their own loss. #HopeHelpHeal Suicide Prevention PSA The TAPS peer mentoring program connects surviving families of our fallen troops with each other for companionship and support.
Video: TAPS Public Service Announcement TAPS Public Service Announcement TAPS Public Service Announcement TAPS Media This 30-second public service announcement (PSA) informs viewers about the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), which provides comfort and care to anyone grieving the death of someone who died while serving in the Armed Forces. videos, About TAPS Mission This 30-second public service announcement (PSA) informs viewers about the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
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Video: Honoring Love and Embracing Transformation Video: Honoring Love and Embracing Transformation Honoring Love and Embracing Transformation Webinar \| TAPS Institute Andy McNiel There are many special holidays where we express our love for others. In the month of February on Valentine's Day we buy flowers, send cards, write letters, or express love to those special people in our lives. It is during these times when the love we feel for them is reflected in the pain we experience over their absence. What do we do with all the love we have f
Video: Interpersonal Support for Children of Military Loss — The Role of the Military Mentor Video: Interpersonal Support for Children of Military Loss — The Role of the Military Mentor Interpersonal Support for Children of Military Loss — The Role of the Military Mentor Webinar \| TAPS Institute Karl Hillway Connection building in the face of trauma and loss is an essential tool in supporting children grieving a military loss. Active Duty and Veteran Service Members can offer guidance and mentorship to children of military loss. Mentoring holds lifelong meaning for children who have
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Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll Video: Thanksgiving Message from Bonnie Carroll \| TAPS Bonnie Carroll We know Thanksgiving can be a really challenging time. There is so much focus on family being together and for many of us, there is now an empty seat at the table. Please know that on this Thanksgiving, we honor and remember the lives lived, we remember the blessing that is given to us by those we love. We know that love transcends this physical life. Those we love are always
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Video: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Demystified Video: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Demystified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Demystified Webinar \| TAPS Institute Howard Lipke Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is the most widely disseminated and thoroughly researched method of psychotherapy to appear in recent times. It is recognized as an evidence-based method of treatment for PTSD by evaluating authorities including the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Tra
Video: TAPS President and founder Bonnie Carroll Shares new resources for the American Public on CNN Video: TAPS President and founder Bonnie Carroll Shares new resources for the American Public on CNN Video: TAPS President and founder Bonnie Carroll Shares new resources for the American Public on CNN CNN For 25 years, TAPS has brought the families of America's fallen heroes to Arlington to participate in ceremonies with the president, but this year things look very, very different. TAPS held their national survivor's seminar... but it was held virtually. Bonnie Carroll speaks with CNN's Joh
The TAPS Interview: Jon Stewart The TAPS Interview: Jon Stewart The TAPS Interview: Jon Stewart \| TAPS Allison Gilbert Jon Stewart’s father, a veteran of the Korean War, died in 2013. But the former Daily Show host’s personal experience with loss is not the only reason he sat down recently for an interview with TAPS Magazine. Stewart was in Arlington, VA, for the launch of the TAPS Institute for Hope and Healing®. Stewart is a staunch supporter of service members, veterans, and military families. He is also a tirel
Video: TAPS These Days Video: TAPS These Days #FamiliesNeverForget Video: TAPS These Days #FamiliesNeverForget TAPS Media The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is the leading national organization providing compassionate care and survivor support services for the families of America's fallen military heroes. Since 1994, TAPS has offered support to more than 85,000 survivors of fallen military in the form of peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, grief seminars and retreats for adu
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Survivors Fill Community Need for Face Masks Survivors Fill Community Need for Face Masks Survivors Fill Community Need for Face Masks \| TAPS Susie Ristau As everyone knows, we’re all going through a tough time in our lives with COVID-19. Every night when I went to bed I stressed over how things were going to be for my family. One night, I thought: Why am I laying here stressing over what is going to happen? I need to be doing something to help people in need. I had seen so many Facebook posts about places in need of face masks. The n
Programs for Young Adult Survivors Expand in 2019 Programs for Young Adult Survivors Expand in 2019 Programs for Young Adult Survivors Expand in 2019 \| TAPS Lalaine Estella Understanding the need to connect with those who know our pain lies at the heart of what TAPS does. TAPS programming is guided by the belief that hope and healing can be found when we travel the grief journey together. TAPS was founded 25 years ago with grief support for adults and children. Over the years, it became apparent that specialized programming was needed to bri
Holiday Survival Tips: Practical Advice to Help Anyone Coping with Grief Holiday Survival Tips: Practical Advice to Help Anyone Coping with Grief Holiday Survival Tips: Practical Advice to Help Anyone Coping with Grief TAPS Holiday cheer and merrymaking can be everywhere this time of year, but for those grieving the loss of a loved one, the holiday season can be filled with emotional twists and turns. The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) would like to offer the following tips to help those who are grieving the death of a loved one this holiday se
Resource Center: TAPS Casework Assistance Resource Center: TAPS Casework Assistance Resource Center: TAPS Casework Assistance Glenn Gray Help is Here When You Need It As those who have come in touch with TAPS soon learn, one of our primary missions is to provide support and guidance to our survivor families, helping to overcome the emotional hurdles of military loss and identifying solutions that allow you to focus on celebrating the life of your loved one. TAPS also recognizes that there are always points in your journey—wh
TAPS Issues Tips for the Public Seeking to Express Sympathy or Support for the Families of Those Who Died in the Navy Yard TAPS Issues Tips for the Public Seeking to Express Sympathy or Support for the Families of Those Who Died in the Navy Yard TAPS Issues Tips for the Public Seeking to Express Sympathy or Support for the Families of Those Who Died in the Navy Yard TAPS The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), issues the following statement: We are saddened by the loss of life and injuries in a shooting incident at the U.S. Navy Yard in Washington D.C. yesterday. TAPS stands ready to assist families
There Is Absolutely Magic in Gratitude 'There Is Absolutely Magic in Gratitude' There Is Absolutely Magic in Gratitude \| TAPS Amber Hockman Unexpected, tragic loss changes a person forever. I believe that we get to choose how it changes us. We can let it destroy us, turning us bitter and angry and cold. Or we can let it soften us, making us kinder and gentler and more grateful. It isn’t an easy choice, either way. Those of us who have lost our loved ones know this to be true. We know the struggle to choose life again after we have
Holiday Wish List for the Grieving Holiday Wish List for the Grieving Holiday Wish List for the Grieving Jeff Brookshire "Happy Hanukkah," they say. "Merry Christmas," they repeat. "Joyous Kwanza," they wish. But for some of us, happy and merry and joy are the remotest emotions of our heart. Especially during this season. Too many memories. Too many traditions. Too much pain. The empty chair at the dinner table. The one less present under the tree. The voice that filled the room with laughter now silent. While some sing that "
TAPS Care Package for College Freshmen TAPS Care Package for College Freshmen TAPS Care Package for College Freshmen \| TAPS TAPS TAPS Education Support Services is excited to open the application period to sign up to receive this year's Education Care Packages for incoming college freshmen. These care packages are for surviving children and siblings headed off to their first year of college. The care packages include a variety of items for young adults, including a TAPS Education Resource Report — a specialized document with in
Comprehensive Support for Survivors of Trauma Comprehensive Support for Survivors of Trauma Comprehensive Support for Survivors of Trauma \| TAPS Shauna Springer Editor’s note: For more than 10 years, TAPS has comforted and cared for more than 11,500 surviving family members who have lost a military loved one to suicide. Each day, an average of three to four new survivors of suicide loss come to TAPS, and we welcome them with the warm embrace that can only come from those who truly understand their journey. This is the third installment
Thanksgiving Thanksgiving Thanksgiving Michele Hiester Marcum Well, this will be our eighth Thanksgiving without my brother, and I just really can’t believe it’s been that long! Have we really gathered together over eight different turkeys…watched eight seasons of holiday football…braved eight Black Fridays of shopping nonsense since he left this Earth? I remember when I was counting moments and then mere hours, waiting for the agonizing grief to subside. Somewhere along that timeline, the hours stretched