People come to the hospital to get well from an illness or an injury. They hope to return home to their normal life routines. This is expected for the majority of patients. There are some people, however, who do not get well, but experience the end of their life in death. When this occurs at Brookwood Medical Center, the focus of attention turns to the family and their well being at a time of loss.

At the time of death, a chaplain may be present to share in the moment and support the family in their grief. A place of quiet is provided and assistance is offered to contact family and clergy. At the appropriate time, questions are asked about a post examination, organ donation, and funeral home. The family is given their time to make decisions and to be with their loved one.

Brookwood Medical Center has a bereavement program in place that begins at the time of death. A brochure, "Where do We Go From Here?", addresses some more immediate questions that families have about funeral arrangements and what they are to do in a time of grief. They are also given a booklet, Healing Grief, that covers many of the issues that arise at a time of death, such as: how to talk to children; the stages of grief; personal feelings; and moving on in one’s life.

After the death of a patient, sympathy cards are provided to the staff of the nursing unit for them to sign and send to the family. About two weeks after the death, the chaplain sends a letter to the family offering our continuing prayer and support. Information is also included about grief support groups and additional help in the recovery after a significant loss. Chaplain John Gregory is the coordinator of this program and is assisted by the Volunteers.

It is very difficult to leave the hospital after your loved one has died. In the midst of the family loss, the Brookwood staff seeks to give meaning and purpose to the beginning of their journey in grief.

For more information, please call (205)877-1936 or e-mail john.gregory@tenethealth.com or michael1.gross@tenethealth.com