A Journey from Hops to Beer: The Grief Path

“Creating our collection of farmhouse style beers is an exercise in patience,“ says Matt Miller, co-owner of Mellow Mink Brewing in Mechanicsburg. “We combine the ingredients in barrels and give beer time to develop its unique characteristics. The process can’t be rushed.”

The journey of grief, like the process of making beer, takes time and patience. While each individual’s journey is unique, everyone experiences transitions from recognizing loss to forming a new way of life.

At its recent event, “A Journey from Hops to Beer: The Grief Path” Homeland Hospice discussed the grieving process with individuals who have experience the death of a loved one. Homeland Hospice is a hospice program that serves communities throughout Central Pennsylvania.

For friends Cathy and Carol, the event was a chance to connect with others who understand the unique heartache of losing a loved one and navigating a new life. Cathy’s husband died two years ago and Carol’s husband died last year. Both families received services from Homeland Hospice.

“I’m here to support Carol because I know how difficult it can be to socialize during grief,” Cathy says. “I’ll support her as long as she needs me.”

Cathy and Carol both attend Homeland’s Women’s Luncheon Series, which provides an opportunity for women to navigate their grief journey in a safe and supportive space. No topic is off limits and everyone has an opportunity to share. They have found the luncheons to be source of strength and value new friendships made in the group.

Recently, the ladies took their first cruise together to the Bahamas. They are planning another cruise to Bermuda later this year.

“I couldn’t have made it through the past year without Cathy,” Carol says. “She’s both a mentor and friend.”

At the end of the evening, attendees sampled flights of beer from Mellow Mink and talked about their personal paths through grief. Individuals who were strangers when the night began offered each other support and encouragement.

“I know the journey is difficult, but it’s worth it,” says Brian Medkeff-Rose, M.Div., M.A., Bereavement Counselor at Homeland Hospice. “There’s light at the end of the tunnel.”

Homeland Hospice provides bereavement support through phone calls, mailings, one-on-one consultations and support groups up to 13 months after the death of a loved one. Support groups offer self-awareness, healing, helping others, a sense of community and coping skills.

The Women’s Soup and Salad Luncheons are held the third Friday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Isaac’s Grill at the West Shore Plaza.

To learn more, please contact Homeland Hospice at (717) 221-7890.