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Hope Healthcare offers creative art program to support people coping with grief
People struggling with grief after the loss of a loved one can explore a creative outlet for emotional release and self-expression during Open Studio, a six-week Zoom series designed for adults ages 18 and older.
Participants will connect with their peers and discover new coping skills while engaging in a favorite artistic activity, such as singing, dancing, painting, writing, crafting or any creative practice. They will learn to describe their journey through the process of writing; and, if desired, share their story and reflect on their experience with fellow group members.
Led by Hope Bereavement Counselor Nicole Thoma, MSW, the group will meet virtually from 1-3 p.m., Mondays beginning Feb. 7. Participants will need a quiet setting with Wi-Fi access during the sessions; no prior art experience is required. Open Studio is provided at no charge, thanks to generous community support.
Space is limited, and registration is required before Thursday, Feb. 3. Those who are interested in participating should contact Nicole.Thoma@HopeHCS.org or 239-415-7219.
With more than 40 years of experience as a local, not-for-profit organization, Hope Healthcare is dedicated to providing care and comfort for people in life's closing chapter. A compassionate team of staff and volunteers offers practical, spiritual and emotional support for the entire family. For more information, visit HopeHCS.org.
Free autism screening for young children
Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southwest Florida, offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to five years of age.
The next screening will be held on Feb. 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pediatric Specialist Office, 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers.
It is estimated that one in every 59 children is diagnosed with some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder, making it more common than childhood cancer, juvenile diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.
Medical consultants for the project stress that an early diagnosis can make a vast difference for toddlers and their families. They say early intensive behavioral intervention can make an immense difference not just in the development of the child, but in their families as well.
The ASD screening is conducted by the Golisano Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida. The screenings are administered by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, who has extensive training and experience in typical child development and developmental disorders.
A physician referral is not required. To schedule a screening, please call 239-343-6838.