The Annie’s Hope organization is a legacy to a former patient of pediatric oncology nurse Becky Byrne, founder/executive director of the nonprofit. Becky says Annie was a young lady who never lost hope for her future, despite the health challenges imposed upon her by acute leukemia at the age of 12. When Annie eventually passed on during 1991, Becky says she knew she had to do something helpful to those forced to deal with life-ending grief. So, by 1998, she had five volunteers in place. There now are 12 employees and one volunteer staffer who function as a bereavement center focused solely on the needs of mourning children, adolescents and their families in the St. Louis region.
"We believe grief is a universal, normal, natural response to loss, and that there's no single path toward healing," explains Becky. "Grief is a lifelong process whereby the goal is not to 'get over it' but to discover new relationships not based on physical presences but on the love and memories which live on."
She says there are no costs to individuals or families who participate in the Glendale-headquartered program, which is not affiliated with religious groups, health care systems or other entities. Grief referral service offerings include group and school-based support for children (ages 3-12), teens (ages 13-18) and adults. They also provide overnight camps for youths, teen retreats and family social outings and hope/healing gatherings.
Annie’s Hope programs are funded solely through private donations, grants, sponsorships and special events. In fact, the group is scheduled to host a trivia night on Nov. 2 at International Institute of St. Louis from 6:30-10 p.m.
"Helping grieving families discover their own courage, strength and hope for the future is what Annie’s Hope is all about," summarizes Becky.
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"If given a safe, trusting place surrounded by care and support, every child has the ability to heal and live a productive, joyful life."