Widows of West End and the wider community are invited to attend a retreat created just for them on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the 4th Story Theater. The retreat provides stories, laughter, fellowship and healing, and creates a sacred space where widows find community and understanding.

Retreat leader Donna Marie Todd is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist®, professional storyteller, and widow. She created the retreat program with a grant from the National Storytelling Network. “When we are widowed, our identity changes. Part of a widow’s recovery is discovering who she is without the other. It’s like you are half of a whole for a while, and it’s a very painful process to rebuild your life alone.”

At the retreat, women will share their stories of love and loss. They will also explore proven ways to make healthy decisions, form new friendships, have better health, and learn ways to improve their sleep, emotional health, and immune system as they continue to recover. It is designed for women who have been widowed six months or longer.  “You can do it alone.” Todd says, “It just takes longer and it’s a lot more fun to share the process with other women who get it!”

Registration is required.  The retreat fee of $149 includes all retreat materials, a take-home package of resources from the retreat, and a catered lunch and snacks.  A limited number of scholarships are available for West End members.  Online registration is available at AWidowsTale.com/retreats. For more information, contact Rev. Erin Racine at eracine@westendumc.org or 615.321.8500, x8838.