Rebecca Russell and her two girls struggled to cope after the unexpected loss of Rebecca’s mother, the children’s grandmother. She suffered a massive heart attack in August 2020, and the news shocked everyone.

Then, only a year later, Rebecca’s husband began having complications as a result of Covid-19. He died in October 2021, leaving behind a loving widow and two grieving daughters.

Rebecca said she didn’t know where to turn after experiencing two major losses in such a short amount of time.

“My kids, just like me, were lost and adrift after the deaths,” Rebecca said. “Coming to Valerie’s House helped my kids and me find healthy outlets to cope.”

Rebecca’s daughters, Joselyn and Nicole, were first introduced to Valerie’s House through a school group at Riverdale High School.

Valerie’s House school groups bring support directly to grieving students in Southwest Florida. These groups are modeled after our nightly peer grief support groups that aim to help children work through the loss of a loved one together.

Valerie’s House is currently in seven schools in Lee County alone.

“This program means a lot to me,” said Joselyn. “The people there are very understanding and kind. They help me feel safe. I always leave group feeling lighter.”

Joselyn also said she feels like she has hope for her future again.

Nicole has a similar experience. She said Valeire’s House has taught her positive coping skills like journaling and listening to music.

“Valerie’s House makes me feel safe and helps me express my grief,” Nicole said. “I feel like I can be honest and share my grief journey.”

After hearing about Valeire’s House through her daughters, Rebecca began attending group night to talk about the loss of her husband with other widows and widowers.

The family has been attending group night at Valerie’s House- Fort Myers in early 2022.

“I love that my kids can talk about what they are feeling with their peers who have gone through the same thing,” Rebecca said. “Based on my experience with my kids, it’s helped us all heal.”

If you or someone you know is grieving the loss of a loved one, please reach out to Valerie’s House at (239) 204-5804.