Witzenhausen hospice group: Open conversations about death and grief

Witzenhausen hospice group: Open conversations about death and grief

On World Hospice Day, the Witzenhausen/Neu-Eichenberg hospice group opened its doors and invited people to shed light on the often taboo topic of dying and death in a lighthearted way. Under the motto “What is important is our ability to listen,” as hospice pioneer Cicely Saunders put it, a space was created in which visitors could speak freely about these serious topics. Coordinator Heidi Lott underlined the importance of openness when dealing with death and emphasized that good hospice work should not shy away from transience, because it requires empathy and compassion.

The event focused on exchange and mutual support. Christine Kluge, who serves as co-founder of the hospice group, explained that preparation for dealing with the dying is essential. Their training of volunteers ensures that helpers are well prepared to assist the dying and their families. Kluge emphasized that dying is a natural part of life, which raises awareness among all relatives.

The Celler model as a central concept

A central component of the hospice group is the work based on the Celler model. This model offers a protected space to deal intensively with the topics of life and death. The aim is to train the volunteers in their support and to develop a respectful, empathetic attitude towards the needs of dying people. The training course is divided into three phases: from the introduction through the first practical phase to deepening your own role and strengthening your support skills. It is noteworthy that this model is open to everyone, regardless of religious or philosophical backgrounds, favoring widespread acceptance and participation.

Spaces for mourning and companionship

The hospice group goes beyond training. Tanja Schulze leads the children's grief group “Kesper Engel”. She made it clear that children grieve in their own way - with their hearts. This group not only offers little mourners the opportunity to express their feelings, but also to talk about saying goodbye in a safe environment and with like-minded people.

Music also plays a crucial role in grief support. Stefi Clar's harp sounds during the event conveyed comfort and tenderness and created a calming atmosphere in which participants were able to open up and come to terms with their emotions.

Encounters in hospice work

Even though it often deals with difficult topics, there is also room for moments of laughter and joy in hospice work. Volunteer end-of-life caregivers often have encounters that can last hours, months or even years. In these conversations, which range from reflections on the past to enriching experiences, it becomes clear that death is part of the cycle of life. A book from the Maltese Hospice and Palliative Advisory Service describes such encounters and encourages people to approach dying with acceptance. It contains a total of 50 stories that underline the importance of hospice care and make you think. The book is available in bookstores at a price of 9.95 euros.

Initiatives such as the open day in Witzenhausen make a significant contribution to establishing a positive and open culture of discussion about the topic of dying and death and thereby support the people who find themselves in these sensitive situations, both affected relatives and the dying themselves.

For more information about the Witzenhausen/Neu-Eichenberg hospice group, please visit HNA. The Celler model is detailed Diaconia explained and further information about end-of-life care can be found at Archdiocese of Berlin.