Individuals dealing with the loss of a loved one to cancer are invited to join Winthrop-University Hospital’s free Bereavement Group beginning Thursday, May 12, 2011, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Sessions will be held for six consecutive Thursdays (from May 12 through June 16) at the Winthrop Wellness Pavilion, 1300 Franklin Avenue, Suite ML-5 in Garden City.

Bereavement is the period of grief and mourning after a death – and is part of the normal process of reacting to a loss. Individuals may experience grief as a mental, physical, social or emotional reaction. Although these reactions are normal, the process can be isolating, but supportive services can help.

The group is being conducted by Mary Rzeszut, LMSW, from Winthrop’s Institute for Cancer Care. “Having the opportunity to receive support with others who have experienced a similar loss can help an individual heal,” she said.

Sessions are free, but registration is required. For further information or to register, please call 1-516-663-3867. Please note that individuals interested in the group after the start date of May 12th are welcome.