FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions

1. If I go to a meeting, will I have to talk?
   No one is required to talk at any meeting. We understand how difficult that can be when our grief is so fresh. We do ask that you listen, however.
   
   
2. My child was an adult and didn't live at home. Can I still go to a meeting?
   Chapter meetings are open to all families who have experienced the death of a child, at any age, from any cause. Regardless of age, we in TCF believe our children will always be thought of as just that.....our children.
   
   
3. Is there a charge to attend?
   There is never a charge to attend a TCF meeting. Our chapters rely on voluntary donations from members, friends and the community at large. We also do fund raising activities supported by our membership.
   
   
4. What happens at a meeting?
   Some meetings are simply introducing ourselves and sharing our thoughts and feelings. At other times, chapters have short programs before the sharing time. The programs may include a brief guest speaker, viewing a video tape, or listening to an audio tape. Depending on the size of the group we will split up into smaller groups and either discuss similar topics or support random discussions. At times we will also have special activities or topics in one of these groups.
   
   
5. Can I bring a friend with me?
   Of course, you can bring a friend, but we ask that they, as well as all members, respect each other's privacy. It is important for us to be able to share freely within our group and be sure confidences will be respected.
   
   
6. My husband says he won't come with me. Can I come alone?
   Yes. We all grieve differently and he may not be ready to take part just yet...or ever. And, likewise, many husbands attend meetings without their wives.
   
   
7. My child died from AIDS. Will I still be welcome?
   Yes. All families who have experienced the death of a child at any age, from any cause, are welcome.
   
   
8. Religion doesn't matter to me anymore. Can people at a meeting accept that?
   I think you will find TCF members are very tolerant of any views. After the death of a child, many priorities, as well as values, change.
   
   
9. I have baby-sitting problems. Would it be all right to bring my five year old with me?
   While we understand the difficulties of finding child care, we must ask that any children under 18 years of age not be brought to our sessions. While we all love children, it is very difficult, at times, to keep them from being distracting to others and at the same time may cause individuals to hold back feelings that they need to get out into the open. Some chapters have sibling groups for children twelve or older; at this time we do not.
   
   
10. Do I need a reservation before I come to a meeting?
    No reservations are needed. Just come whenever you feel up to it. We will ask that you fill out a short membership form which primarily gets you on our mailing list fore the monthly newsletter and Children Remembered sheet. All information is held in confidence and not shared with anyone without your specific permission.
    
    
11. My child died seven years ago, and I postponed my grief work. Now it's catching up with me. Is it too late to come now?
    We all grieve differently. Many parents don't feel the need of a support group until years after the death of a child. It's all right to come whenever you are ready, whether it's soon after your child's death, months later or years later.