Walking Through Grief

Program Description:

Walking through Grief, a service of the Cave Hill Heritage Foundation, is a comprehensive series of programs designed to serve families that have recently experienced a loss. By gathering together in a communal setting, families can start the process of navigating through grief by participating in one of our Grief Walks, Book Club, Community Lectures and or Holiday Remembrance Program. This is a complimentary community service.

About the Facilitator:

Melanie Salsbury facilitates the Walking through Grief program on behalf of the Cave Hill Heritage Foundation. Melanie is a native of Louisville, KY and has been working in the areas of social work and gerontology since 1995. Melanie is a master’s level certified social worker, licensed nursing home administrator, and holds certifications in Grief Counseling and Thanatology; the study of death, dying & bereavement. In addition, Melanie serves as part time faculty at the University of Louisville Kent School of Social Work. For fun, Melanie enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and pets; being outdoors, cooking, traveling, and reading memoirs.

Spousal-Partner Grief Walking Group

Grief Walk

*We recommend waiting at least 6-8 weeks following the death before joining the group.

This easy-paced walking group meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday mornings of the month to take a 90-minute stroll through the Cemetery. This group offers participants an opportunity to share and learn from others who have experienced the death of a spouse/partner, while enjoying some mild exercise and the scenic beauty of the grounds. Walks are led by a certified social worker/grief counselor. Walkers gather at the Broadway entrance of Cave Hill Cemetery. During extremely cold or inclement weather, the group will meet inside at the Broadway entrance.

Registration Link: https://www.cavehillcemetery.com/walkingthroughgrief/register


No upcoming dates scheduled at this time, please check back.

RSVP

Dining Alone Together

Dining Alone Together

February 8, 2024 • 5:30 P.M.

St. Matthews Baptist Church
3515 Grandview Avenue
Louisville, KY 40207

Everything changes after the death of a spouse or partner. For many, this was the person we shared meals with at home, or when dining out. Dinner can be the hardest time of day for those grieving the loss of a spouse/partner and cooking for one person may seem lonely and challenging.

On Thursday, February 8th at 5:30 PM, we invite those who are grieving the loss of a spouse/partner to gather at St. Matthews Baptist Church for a casual dinner and conversation. The main course will be provided, and participants are invited to bring a side dish to share. Not up for bringing a dish? Come anyway!

If you have a favorite dish perfect for one person, or you have the perfect freezer meal, please bring the recipe! We’ll pull all your recipes together to share with the group.

RSVP Required. Registration is limited to 50 people.

For more information, contact Melanie Salsbury at 502.645.7012

CLICK HERE to register for this event


Community Lectures and Presentations

Community Lectures Program

Several times per year, the community is invited to join us for our lecture series. Speakers will range from professionals with backgrounds in grief therapy, resiliency, meditation, or other specialty areas.

Forest Bathing Workshop- Each workshop is limited to 12 people.

  • Thursday, April 21, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 23, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 12 Noon
  • Thursday, June 16, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, June 18, 2022 10:00 a.m.- 12 Noon
  • Thursday, November 3, 2022 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, November 5, 2022 10:00 a.m. - 12 Noon

Facilitator: Jordan Dye, MSW

Description:
The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely, or unhappy is to go outside . . . . . I firmly believe that nature brings solace in all troubles.
– Anne Frank, The Diary of Anne Frank

Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku originated in Japan and has its roots in our natural connection with nature. In Forest Bathing a guide offers “invitations” for tuning in to the forest atmosphere through a series of experiential exercises such as “Sensory Experiencing” in which one notices aspects of nature, like birdsong, the texture of moss and the latticed pattern of tree branches. It’s pretty simple. And yet research indicates that only two hours of Forest Bathing can decrease stress levels and improve concentration, memory and sleep.

Forest Bathing at Cave Hill Cemetery will include a 1.5 mile walk along an accessible paved path that meanders through rolling hills and trees, some that are 170 years old. Followed by tea. Please let us know in advance of desire for accommodations. As weather is unpredictable, please dress in layers and bring a knapsack or small backpack with water and rain gear. And most of all, come ready to relax in nature.

About the Facilitator:

Jordan Dye, MSW, is a certified social worker who leads nature connection and Mindfulness programs. Her 20-year meditation practice parallels her exploration of nature, which began in the US and extends into South America and Southern Africa. Through Forest Bathing, meditation and other healthy lifestyle choices, she is discovering a more peaceful, creative and engaged way of living


Grief, Loss & Gardening- Limited to 12 people
Bring your garden gloves & join us in the dirt!
Saturday May 14, 2022
10-Noon

In this informative and interactive experience, participants will learn about the restorative benefits of nature and gardening. Guests will take home a completed container garden and books by Sue Stuart-Smith and Alan Wolfelt.

The Well-Gardened Mind: The Restorative Power of Nature by Sue Stuart-Smith
Nature Heals: Reconciling Your Grief Through Engaging with the Natural World by Alan Wolfelt

“Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace.”
May Sarton, American poet (1912 –1995)

“With gardening, there is always next year. There is always hope.”
Sarah Wint, author

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”
Audrey Hepburn.


In-Person Holiday Remembrance Service (with Live Simulcast)

Holiday Remembrance Program

Thursday, December 5, 2024
Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
Program Begins: 6:30 p.m.

St. Matthews Baptist Church
3515 Grandview Avenue
Louisville, KY 40204

The holidays can be one of the most difficult times for families after experiencing a loss. Join Cave Hill Cemetery as we celebrate the life of your loved one during this very special occasion, which will feature live music and opportunities to share your memories. This year, we will specifically invite every family to this in-person event that has been served by Cave Hill Cemetery from November 2023 through September 2024. However, this opportunity is open to the community and all families, regardless of the time of loss or place of burial.

Registration is required to attend or receive a live simulcast link to view the service if you are unable to join us in-person, and have your loved one's photograph shared and special memory read aloud during the program.

If you need assistance with registration, uploading photographs, or have questions, please feel free to reach us directly at 502.813.7761. Our team is happy to assist you in any way necessary.