Two Hastings women, experiencing same tragedy, reach out to other parents

Deb Hines and Janet Stein had never met before this spring. A magazine article written by Stein drew the two together and led them to begin a new weekly grief support group for parents who have experienced the loss of a child – “A Support Group for A Dad, A Mom, Remember You Are Not Alone.”

The name of the group draws attention to Adam Stein and Ryan Lorentz, the women’s sons who died in accidents in the past year and a half.

This past spring, Stein wrote an article about her son’s death (and learning to cope with ongoing grief) for the “Today” magazine published in Red Wing.

Hines’ son had recently died in an accident. When given the magazine, she initially did not read the article. But she soon did and it helped.

“It helped to know someone else was experiencing, going through the same emotions, things I was,” said Hines.

The two met.

“We probably spent four hours talking,” said Hines. “It was a really good visit. I realized I was not alone.”

As they continued talking and helping each other, the women began discussing the possibility of forming a group for other parents who had experienced similar losses of children.

They approached St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church about using a room for meeting. The church agreed.

The first meeting was held last Tuesday. Those who came agreed to hold weekly meetings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. each Tuesday at the church, 2035 W. 15th St.

“What we wanted to have, was a safe, warm, non-denominational place where we can talk, laugh, cry,” said Hines. “Confidentiality is stressed – anything said at the meeting stays there.”

“This is for a mom, a dad; it doesn’t matter how long ago they lost their child,” said Stein.

Stein and Hines stress they are not professional– they do not offer advice. They share their feelings, emotions and are reaching out to others who may want to so the same.

“This is place where an individual can find support in those present around them,” said Hines.

For more information, call Hines at 651-788-0211 or Stein at 651-206-5656.

Tags: area family events, events, entertainment, local