Event Schedule and Sessions
Event Schedule and Sessions
Whether you recently lost your hero, have lived many years without them or are somewhere in between, the TAPS National Military Survivor Seminar is designed to meet you where you are in your grief journey.
We're bringing together peer professionals, subject matter experts, mental health clinicians, and TAPS Peer Mentors and volunteers to provide you with opportunities to grow and heal.
Our TAPS Seminar faculty members are leaders in the field of grief and loss, suicide, traumatic loss and bereavement and will facilitate a rich learning environment to help you gain coping skills and tools to continue your loved one’s legacy.
Getting Connected to the Seminar
The TAPS app allows you to stay organized at seminars and find pertinent workshop information with the click of a button. You will be able to receive real-time notifications from TAPS and save any sessions that you want to attend to your own calendar. While the app is Seminar-focused, most TAPS services are available through the TAPS app, as well.
Virtual Workshop Access: Those who registered for the virtual workshops will receive an email with the virtual workshop information.
Download and install the TAPS App
Download and install the TAPS App on your device using the button links or QR code below. If you have any questions or need further assistance, contact appsupport@taps.org.
SCHEDULE AND SESSIONS
Monday, May 22, 2023
7:00 p.m. — Pre-event What to Expect, Your Seminar Questions Answered
Attending in person? Please join us for a pre-event Zoom meeting to talk about what to expect at the seminar. We will also review safety and health standards that will be in place. We will discuss hotel check-in, registration, meals, and many other details that have been taken care of for us to gather safely in-person. Access to the Zoom meeting will be through the TAPS App.
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Thursday, May 25, 2023
- 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Eastern
Group Leader Meeting
Westin Jefferson 1 - 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Family Check-in and Registration
Gateway Skyview - 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Military Mentor Registration and Meeting
Grand Salons B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J - 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Eastern
Welcome Reception
Arlington Ballroom - 5:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eastern
Good Grief Camp Zone
Crystal Gateway Marriot, Crystal City Marriot, Westin, Embassy Suites - 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Eastern
Welcome, Peer Mentor and First Time Attendees Gatherings
Arlington 1, II, V, VI - 7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Eastern
Share Groups by Loss
Suicide - Grand C, D, E
Illness - Grand F, G, H
Accident - Grand J, K
Homicide - Grand A
Combat - Grand B - 8:45 p.m. Eastern
Meet & Greet
Young Adults (ages 18-30) - Grand F, G, H
Siblings - Grand J, K - 9:15 p.m. – 10:45 p.m. Eastern
Legacy and Military Mentor Meet & Greet
Westin Jefferson 1,2
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Friday, May 26, 2023
- Friday, 6:30 a.m.
Legacy and Military Mentor Meetings
Crystal Gateway Marriot, Crystal City Marriot, Westin, Embassy Suites - Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. Eastern
Family Breakfast Buffet
Grand Ballroom - Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Eastern
Family Check-in and Registration
Fedex Office / Pentagon Foyer - Friday 8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Eastern
Good Grief Camp Opening Ceremony (Live-streamed)
Arlington Ballroom - Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern
Good Grief Camp
Crystal Gateway Marriot, Crystal City Marriot, Westin, Embassy Suites - Friday, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Eastern
National Seminar Opening Ceremony (Live-streamed)
Arlington Ballroom - Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Eastern
Lunch for Adults
Arlington Ballroom - Friday, 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern
Peer Mentor Training
- Friday, 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Open Art Studio – Dr. Jenna Preston and Jennifer Baldwin ... Rosslyn I
The Open Art Studio is an “art making sanctuary,” curated and hosted by skilled and compassionate art therapists. Visitors to the studio are invited to sit and take time to creatively explore, reflect, and express whatever form their grief is taking at that particular time. Whether you are a curious novice, a seasoned artist or someone who isn’t sure where to begin, the studio will meet your ongoing needs throughout the weekend. No talent required, only the willingness to be with what is in your heart and mind. The studio activities may include masks, collage, memory stones, and more traditional art materials such as paints and clay. These heartfelt expressive images can generate conversation and make tangible our shared journey. -
Friday, 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
When Things Get Real: Shifting Family Dynamics After A Sibling Loss– Dr. Heidi Horsley ... Grand A (B)
Following the death of a brother or sister, survivors are often surprised by the fact that family dynamics often change dramatically. In this workshop we will explore what happens when expectations, roles, and relationships shift after loss, and how families can come together and find common ground in the face of struggle.Difficult Conversations About Your Loss – Lisa Zucker ... Grand E (C,D)
Have I said too much? In this workshop, we will explore conversations about loss, from sharing about the way our loved one died to knowing when it feels right to hold back. The goal is to learn more about setting your own boundaries so you can share in a way that is most comfortable to you. In addition to direct conversations with people, we will also discuss conversations about loss on social media and other large group settings.Parenting the Resilient Grieving Child – Dr. Robin Goodman ... Grand J (K)
This workshop will provide an introduction to a comprehensive approach to trauma healing, including simple techniques for quieting the mind, body, and spirit - as well as tools to help restore biological, psychological, and social balance.Grief and Grieving: What to Expect (or Not to Expect) – Dr. Pamela Gabbay ... Grand F (G,H)
Although it is not possible to protect all children from experiencing the death of someone special, it is possible to guide them in their grief journey. When grief enters a child's world, they need adults who can care for and comfort them. Attendees will learn what we know and how to help the grieving child and feel more confident in parenting. The workshop will address a framework for understanding grief, tips for when more help is needed, ways to foster resilience, and key parenting strategies to increase communication and memory making. This is for any adult wanting to build their caregiving toolbox to support a grieving child. This session will be live-streamed.The Impact of Grief, Trauma and Challenges on our "Day to Day" (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30) ... Westin Jefferson 1
Each of us encounter moments in life that create stress, anxiety and self-doubt. Navigating these challenges alone can be isolating. Join us as we discuss how grief, trauma and the challenges we face in the day to day can impact us as Young Adults.Survivor Sharing Groups:
Men Only ... Arlington I
Moms Mentoring Moms ... Arlington II -
Friday, 3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Continuing and Maintaining Bonds after a Death: Rebalancing and Relearning – Ben Wolfe ... Grand A (B)
How do individuals and their families "continue and maintain bonds" with a person who has died? How does one "rebalance their life" after a loss, be it a death, traumatic event, or any crisis? The death of a family member, significant other, relative or friend changes who we are, yet after a death how does the person who died continue to be part of our lives? "Rebalancing and relearning" provides us with a new "window" to look through which we have never seen before. It reshapes us. This interactive session will examine: continuing & maintaining bonds after a death; rebalancing and relearning our world; and, strategies to help families and friends cope with the opportunities and struggles on the "journeys of transition."But I Don't Feel Like Celebrating: Facing Grief on Special Days – Dr. William Hoy ... Grand E (C,D)
Birthdays, anniversaries, and family events like weddings and graduations are times for celebrating. But in the aftermath of loss, most of us don't feel much like celebrating, even when others think we should. In this interactive, fast-paced seminar, we'll talk about why these special days are so difficult and how to manage the invitations and expectations of others.Why Can't We All Get Along? – Dr. Frank Campbell ... Grand J (K)
Family dynamics after loss can be difficult to navigate. This presentation will examine the conflicts that arise within a family system when grief changes the dynamics. Survivors attending will have an opportunity to share struggles they have experienced to determine what support might be available or ways they can change the dynamics.Managing Personal Possessions: Sorting Through Your Loved One's Belongings – Rachel Kodanaz ... Grand F (G,H)
Personal possessions tell a beautiful story of a person's life. This workshop offers a practical approach to sorting, thinning and repurposing our loved one's belongings. Whether you have no idea where to begin or you are pondering a few items, this workshop is for you. Join us for a session learning the Ten Essentials and the power of The Magic of Six Piles of caring and sharing of your loved one's private and personal belongings, including clothes, workrooms, digital material, collections, and more. Our loved one's possessions embody memories that should be saved, shared, and treasured in the hands of those who want to forever be connected. This session will be live-streamed.Guitars with Brett Jones (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30) ... Westin Jefferson 3
Survivor Sharing Groups:
Spanish Speaking Support ... Arlington I
Spouse and Significant Others ... Arlington II - Friday, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Guitars with Brett Jones (Good Grief Camp Graduating Senior Class) ... Westin Jefferson 3 - Friday, 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Eastern
Family Dinner ... Arlington Ballroom - Friday, 5:45 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Eastern
Artechouse Outing (Young Adults, ages 18-30) ... meet outside Arlington Ballroom - Friday, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Family Bingo and Game Night ... Arlington Ballroom
Coffee and Share Group ... Pentagon A
Family Paint Night - Nancy Thompson-Yonehiro ... Grand Ballroom - Friday, 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Eastern
Troops Together ... Westin Jefferson 1
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Saturday, May 27, 2023
- Saturday, 6:30 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Eastern
Morning Nature Walk – Jason Stout ... meet in Lobby, wear workout/comfortable clothing
Nature isn’t just found in the wilderness. A growing body of research shows what we already know, the benefits of spending even short periods of time outdoors and connecting with green spaces, parks, trees, and gardens make an instant and measurable impact on our sense of well-being. Join Jason Stout, who has delivered nature based programs for 20+ years, for a walk, some fresh air, and some tips on how to transform your life through a daily practice of connecting with the healing power of nature anywhere. - Saturday, 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. Eastern
Family Breakfast Buffet
Grand Ballroom, Skyview - Saturday, 7:45 a.m. – 9:15 p.m. Eastern
Good Grief Camp (Adventure at Fort Myer, 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.)
Crystal Gateway Marriot, Crystal City Marriot, Westin, Embassy Suites -
Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Eastern
Special Presentation, Coffee and Conversation with General Martin Dempsey ... Arlington III, IV - Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Open Art Studio – Dr. Jenna Preston and Jennifer Baldwin ... Rosslyn I
The Open Art Studio is an “art making sanctuary,” curated and hosted by skilled and compassionate art therapists. Visitors to the studio are invited to sit and take time to creatively explore, reflect, and express whatever form their grief is taking at that particular time. Whether you are a curious novice, a seasoned artist or someone who isn’t sure where to begin, the studio will meet your ongoing needs throughout the weekend. No talent required, only the willingness to be with what is in your heart and mind. The studio activities may include masks, collage, memory stones, and more traditional art materials such as paints and clay. These heartfelt expressive images can generate conversation and make tangible our shared journey. -
Saturday, 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Healing Invisible Wounds - Resilience, Self-Care, Trauma Awareness – Bob Delaney ... Grand A (B)
At the height of the "Godfather" era, Delaney wore a wire and lived among Wiseguys. His undercover work was a success, but he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and traces of Stockholm syndrome after getting too close to those he investigated. Therapy helped him come to terms with what he'd endured, and he later became well-known and respected as an NBA referee. Delaney's presentation will provide insights and a deeper understanding for navigating human emotions resulting from traumatic experiences. Please note this session may cause triggers to your own experiences that may cause reactions for some attendees.Grief and the Preservation of Self – Lisa Zucker ... Grand E (C,D)
Self preservation is an instinct to keep ourselves from harm, or to survive. In grief, there are times where life only feels like survival. But the preservation of the self extends further as we navigate grief and understand the new world in which we find ourselves. During this workshop we will explore survival and self preservation as well as talk about what self care, mindfulness, and post-traumatic growth are and how you can practically apply them in your life.Grief and Grieving: What to Expect (or Not to Expect) – Dr. Pamela Gabbay ... Grand J (K)
A devastating loss causes us to question everything that we thought that we knew about life. It can make us feel as though we've lost our entire world and our identity. Everyone's grief path is different, but there are some emotions that are experienced by many. These include feeling heartbroken, feelings of anger, deep sadness, guilt, disbelief, loneliness, and worry. Grief is impacted by countless things, including the circumstances surrounding the loss and the relationship with the person who died. Grief is also impacted by whether the death was sudden or unexpected. This workshop will cover what to expect (or not expect) when you're grieving, while honoring the uniqueness of each person's story and experience. We will also discuss coping and caring for yourself, while also caring for others.Parenting the Resilient Grieving Child – Dr. Robin Goodman ... Grand F (G,H)
Although it is not possible to protect all children from experiencing the death of someone special, it is possible to guide them in their grief journey. When grief enters a child's world, they need adults who can care for and comfort them. Attendees will learn what we know and how to help the grieving child and feel more confident in parenting. The workshop will address a framework for understanding grief, tips for when more help is needed, ways to foster resilience, and key parenting strategies to increase communication and memory making. This is for any adult wanting to build their caregiving toolbox to support a grieving child. This session will be live-streamed.Creating our Self-Care Toolkit (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30) ... Westin Jefferson 1
Grief and life's challenges can be exhausting. We all need to find moments to replenish our energy and care for ourselves. What does self-care look like? Join us as we explore what self-care means for Young Adults and how we can create avenues of wellbeing that work for us as individuals.Survivor Sharing Groups:
Spouses & Significant Others of Vietnam Era Veterans ... Arlington I
Unmarried Partners ... Arlington II - Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Eastern
Guitars with Brett Jones (Good Grief Camp Graduating Senior Class) ... Westin Jefferson 3 -
Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Navigating a New Relationship with Family After a Loss – Rachel Kodanaz ... Grand A (B)
Relationships with the parents and family of our loved ones come in all shapes and sizes. Family dynamics which were once complicated can become clearer as you all grieve the death of a central person in your lives or what was once a rock-solid relationship can become messy, complicated and hurtful. No matter what your relationship status is with your in-laws or family members there is a potential for perceived judgment on both sides; awkwardness regarding how and how often to speak about your loved one; and uncertainty about your future relationship as everyone's lives unfold post-loss. After 25 years of juggling in-laws, Rachel will share what she has learned about perception versus reality in regards to these relationships, as well as practical approaches for handling a wide variety of complicated family situations. This workshop will help you map out a path for a future with your in-laws or family members, no matter what that relationship looks like today.Conversations on Kindness, Mental Resilience, and the Courage to Be Where You Are – William Wagasy ... Grand E (C,D)
Real-world examples, taken from history and from William Wagasy's experiences in training and combat as a Navy SEAL, form the basis of this interactive, introspective workshop. Participants will discover new perspectives, hidden strengths, and the power to reframe each day's "mission" as part of a larger purpose.What to Expect When Your Child is Grieving – Dr. Robin Goodman ... Grand J (K)
Guides for expectant parents and caregivers are plentiful. But a manual for what to expect when your child is grieving can be harder to find and confusing to navigate. Understanding what a grieving child may be feeling, what they might be thinking, how they are behaving can help. Using a developmental perspective, attendees will learn the ways children communicate their grief and how adults can address the key bereavement tasks. Translating a child's grief language enables caregivers to feel better equipped to walk with a child on a shared grief journey.Understanding Sibling Loss – Dr. Heidi Horsley ... Grand F (G,H)
In this interactive workshop, Heidi will discuss what helped her, after the death of her 17 yr. old brother, and what has helped the hundreds of bereaved siblings she has interviewed and worked with. Losing her brother was the worst thing that ever happened to her; it turned her world upside down. Often siblings wonder how they will survive after a sibling loss. They question who they are without their sibling, and worry about their parents. Heidi will also address the unique aspects and challenges of sibling death, and get feedback from participants about issues they are struggling with, and how they have found hope without their brother or sister. This session will be live-streamed.What does Moving Forward Look Like to Me? (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30) ... Westin Jefferson 1
After loss it is normal to feel "stuck" in your grief. Join us for a creative-led intention setting session, where we ask "What does moving forward look like to me?" and set intentions through vision boarding, writing, and art. No prior art experience required!Survivor Sharing Groups
Suicide Loss - Parents, Step Parents, Grandparents ... Arlington I
Suicide Loss - Spouses, Ex-spouses, Significant Others ... Arlington II - Saturday, 12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Eastern
Lunch for Adults
Arlington III, IV -
Saturday, 2:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
The Phoenix: Rebuilding Ourselves from the Shattered Pieces of a Difficult Time – Ben Wolfe ... Grand A (B)
The phoenix is a mythical bird that is said to live for 500 years before it burns to ashes. Then, it rises up from the ashes to be reborn, signifying a new beginning. To rise from the ashes means to emerge from a catastrophe stronger, smarter and more powerful. But how is it possible? How is it one can truly move from endings to new beginnings, from coping and surviving, to being transformed and thriving? How do you give your life new meaning? This interactive session will examine: endings and new beginnings, and ways to learn about yourself and others.Family Projects and Activities to Help Cope With Grief – Dr. Pamela Gabbay ... Grand E (C,D)
Doing activities together can be very beneficial when families are grieving. Within a family, members often cope with and process grief differently. Spending time with your children on their terms and doing activities that are important to them can open the door for deeper conversations and meaningful discussions. Creating hands-on projects together is a helpful way to bring family members together in their grief and during times of sadness and stress. Having fun, creating art projects, and sharing stories are all important ways to spend time together. Examples of activities will be shown and there will be plenty of time for questions and discussions.Is My Loss Traumatic? – Dr. Frank Campbell ... Grand J (K)
Traumatic grief has characteristics different from the more traditional grief associated with death. Dr. Frank Campbell will describe elements that stand out when experiencing traumatic grief that compromise the activities of daily living and impact sleep, physical health and overall well-being. When assumed to be characteristics of "normal" grief many find processing their loss overwhelming resulting in a more difficult grief journey. Participants attending are encouraged to ask questions or share personal experiences they are coping with to gain insights and practical solutions that have helped others cope more effectively.But I Don't Feel Like Celebrating: Facing Grief on Special Days – Dr. William Hoy ... Grand F (G,H)
Facing Grief on Special Days: Birthdays, anniversaries, and family events like weddings and graduations are times for celebrating. But in the aftermath of loss, most of us don't feel much like celebrating, even when others think we should. In this interactive, fast-paced seminar, we'll talk about why these special days are so difficult and how to manage the invitations and expectations of others. This session will be live-streamed.Survivor Sharing Group:
Young Adults (ages 18 to 30) ... Westin Jefferson 3
Siblings and Cousins ... Arlington I
Identify as LGBTQIA+... Arlington II -
Saturday, 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Theatre Lab - Amal Saade, Madeleine Regina, Terah Herman-Saldaña ... Grand A (B,J,K)
Come join us for improv ga,es, theatre exercises, creativity work, and fun! We will use improvisation work to cultivate creativity, laughter, and bonding between participants. This light-hearted class is a great way to relax and have fun. No activing or improv experience is necessary; all are welcome!Welcome to Women’s Empowerment - Erin Jacobson ... Grand E (C, D)
The pain of loss often ushers in hard questions about identity and purpose. As we work to integrate loss into our lives, we must also redefine who we are. At the heart of the Women's Empowerment (WE) program at TAPS we provide spaces and tools to explore these complex topics through a lens of gratitude, resilience and kindness. In this interactive workshop, we will touch on some ways that we can begin the process of self-discovery as well as have the opportunity to meet other women on that same path. Our vibrant, compassionate community of surviving women is a place of support and inspiration, where we treasure opportunities to be each other’s teachers, confidantes, cheerleaders, and friends. Whether you have been a part of the WE sisterhood for a long time or are curious about the community, we welcome you!The Stories We Tell Ourselves: Re-constructing Our Grief Narrative - Rachel Hunsell ... Grand F (G, H)
We are the stories we tell, and every day we are telling those stories to both ourselves and to others. From the stories in our head, to the ones we speak aloud, to the ones that live in journals, we express who we are, what’s happened to us, and how we define ourselves and our relationships to others. Loss and the grief experience halt our existing narratives and challenge our identity, yet the storytelling process gives us the space to re-interpret and construct the stories of our lives in a way that fosters resilience and growth. This experiential workshop will empower participants to explore the stories of their lives through individual and group storytelling and to create new perspectives on their grief narratives. -
Saturday, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eastern
TAPS Grand Banquet
Crystal Gateway Marriott Arlington Ballroom
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Sunday, May 28, 2023
- Sunday, 6:30 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. Eastern
Morning Nature Walk – Jason Stout ... meet in Rosslyn Foyer, wear workout/comfortable clothing
Nature isn’t just found in the wilderness. A growing body of research shows what we already know, the benefits of spending even short periods of time outdoors and connecting with green spaces, parks, trees, and gardens make an instant and measurable impact on our sense of well-being. Join Jason Stout, who has delivered nature based programs for 20+ years, for a walk, some fresh air, and some tips on how to transform your life through a daily practice of connecting with the healing power of nature anywhere. - Sunday, 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Eastern
Family Breakfast Buffet
Grand Ballroom, Skyview - Sunday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Eastern
Good Grief Camp
Crystal Gateway Marriot, Crystal City Marriott, Westin, Embassy - Sunday, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Eastern
Special Session: Coffee and Conversation
Arlington III, IV - Sunday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern
Open Art Studio – Dr. Jenna Preston and Jennifer Baldwin ... Rosslyn I
The Open Art Studio is an “art making sanctuary,” curated and hosted by skilled and compassionate art therapists. Visitors to the studio are invited to sit and take time to creatively explore, reflect, and express whatever form their grief is taking at that particular time. Whether you are a curious novice, a seasoned artist or someone who isn’t sure where to begin, the studio will meet your ongoing needs throughout the weekend. No talent required, only the willingness to be with what is in your heart and mind. The studio activities may include masks, collage, memory stones, and more traditional art materials such as paints and clay. These heartfelt expressive images can generate conversation and make tangible our shared journey. -
Sunday, 9:30 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Healing Invisible Wounds: Resilience, Self-Care, Trauma Awareness – Bob Delaney ... Grand A (B)
At the height of the "Godfather" era, Delaney wore a wire and lived among Wiseguys. His undercover work was a success, but he struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder and traces of Stockholm syndrome after getting too close to those he investigated. Therapy helped him come to terms with what he'd endured, and he later became well-known and respected as an NBA referee. Delaney's presentation will provide insights and a deeper understanding for navigating human emotions resulting from traumatic experiences. Please note this session may cause triggers to your own experiences that may cause reactions for some attendees.Spirituality and Grief: A Conversation about Faith and Belief after Loss – Andy McNiel ... Grand E (C,D)
Faith, belief, and spirituality play a vital role in the lives of many of us after someone in our life dies. Many of us find strength through our faith as we journey through grief. While others of us may find faith to be difficult in the aftermath of loss. Spirituality can have complicated ebbs and flows as we navigate the many challenges that grief brings to our lives. Join us for this interactive session on spirituality and grief. We will discuss how our faith has brought us strength, how our faith may have been challenged by loss, and ways our grief may have impacted deeply held beliefs.Finding Your Voice Through Writing – Rachel Kodanaz ... Grand J (K)
Would you feel more at ease if you were able to convey your pain by communicating your thoughts and emotions in writing? Are you looking for an outlet to be heard? Finding your voice through writing will provide tools and techniques to express yourself via written words while providing an opportunity to heal, grow, and feel empowered. Whether you would like to write a book, a blog, or an article for a magazine on a topic near and dear to your heart, penning words of your thoughts will help balance emotions and logic. Join in the conversation on how to get started, what topic is best for you, how to create an appropriate timeline, and ways to publish your written words if so desired.Nontraditional Rituals that Honor and Heal – Crystal Purdy ... Grand F (G,H)
Purposeful activities, extreme sports, and rituals can help promote healing of the grieving heart following military loss. In this workshop, come with me as I share my experiences with you and give you some ideas for caring for your own heart. We'll march 26.2 miles through the deserts of White Sands Missile Range, each mile honoring a different person who has gone before me; run 213 miles to the Oregon Coast in memory of a veteran who changed my life; and work tirelessly to positively impact the lives of veterans and military families through non-profit organizations and outreach activities. This session will be live-streamed.Brett Jones Guitars (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30) ... Westin Jefferson 3
Survivor Sharing Groups:
Death Related to Overdose or Substance Use ... Arlington I
New Relationships After the Loss of a Partner ... Arlington II -
Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Creating Meaning from Loss – Audri Beugelsdijk ... Grand A (B)
This interactive workshop is for survivors exploring how they have (or want to) create meaning since their loss. Ideas about the role of meaning-making in the grief process are presented, such as Bob Neimeyer's assertion that loss "requires us to reconstruct a world that again 'makes sense,' that restores a semblance of meaning, direction, and interpretability to a life that is forever transformed." Participants engage in guided discussions to reflect on changes they have experienced, share personal observations about how meaning-making has played a role in their grief journey, and whether or not meaning is found or created.More Than the Way They Died – Lisa Zucker ... Grand E (C,D)
Their legacy is in their stories - that's how we keep them here with us. Through memories and moments, we get to know who your loved one really was, because their life is not defined solely by how they died. We invite you to bring a story, picture, or anecdote about your loved one that you would like to share. Please keep in mind that while we have a constraint on time during the workshop and would like to hold space for all who wish to speak to do so, we hope this inspires stories to be shared throughout the remainder of the day.But I Don't Feel Like Celebrating: Facing Grief on Special Days – Dr. William Hoy ... Grand J (K)
Birthdays, anniversaries, and family events like weddings and graduations are times for celebrating. But in the aftermath of loss, most of us don't feel much like celebrating, even when others think we should. In this interactive, fast-paced seminar, we'll talk about why these special days are so difficult and how to manage the invitations and expectations of others.Conversations on Kindness, Mental Resilience, and the Courage to Be Where You Are – William Wagasy ... Grand F (G,H)
Real-world examples, taken from history and from William Wagasy's experiences in training and combat as a Navy SEAL, form the basis of this interactive, introspective workshop. Participants will discover new perspectives, hidden strengths, and the power to reframe each day's "mission" as part of a larger purpose. This session will be live-streamed.Survivor Sharing Groups:
Honor & Remembrance on Memorial Day (open to all) ... Arlington I - Sunday, 12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Eastern
Lunch for Adults
Arlington III, IV, V, VI -
Sunday, 1:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Yoga and Wellness for Beginners – Rayanne Hunter ... Grand A (B)
Have you always wanted to try yoga to ease your grief, stress, and anxiety but thought it was too "out there" or that you would never be able to do it? Join Rayanne Hunter as she demystifies this ancient practice while guiding you through the many benefits of using yoga to create natural healing for body, mind, and soul. You'll learn that yoga doesn't have to be scary, how adaptable it can be for any body, and how it can complement other self-care practices. Bring all of your yoga questions and fears to this workshop. We'll explore them and broaden your understanding of yoga, building the foundation for your further exploration.Growing Through Loss: Honoring the Challenges & Milestones of Your Grief – Andy McNiel ... Grand E (C,D)
Grief can be a long hard road to walk. It is a journey with many ebbs and flows where challenges are met along the way and milestones achieved. Each of us has a unique story of what that journey has been for us, how we have been changed, and who we are now because of our grief. This session will explore the many challenges and milestones we experience in our grief. We will discuss some of the ways we have grown through grief and pain and consider milestones that mark the path we have walked. Sometimes it is helpful to look back on where we have been, what we have learned, how we have grown, and how this offers insight and hope for our future and where life will take us from here.Godwinks – Bonnie Carroll ... Grand J (K)
Some people call them “God Winks,” some call them signs, messages or after-death communication. No matter what we call them, signs from our loved ones can be very present in our lives. Stories and experiences of the presence of our loved ones will be discussed in this open-minded and intimate sharing session.Coping When Memories Hurt – Audri Beugelsdijk ... Grand F (G,H)
We don't ever want to forget our loved ones and memories can bring both joy and pain. Sometimes we push memories away because we can't experience them without an upwelling of emotion that is difficult to cope with. We will explore new coping techniques, including how linking positive memories with negative experiences can help us navigate our grief and remember even when it hurts. This session will be live-streamed.Survivor Sharing Groups:
Peer Mentors ... Arlington I -
Sunday, 3:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Eastern
ADULT WORKSHOPS and SHARING GROUPS
Yoga and Wellness for Beginners – Rayanne Hunter ... Grand A (B)
Have you always wanted to try yoga to ease your grief, stress, and anxiety but thought it was too "out there" or that you would never be able to do it? Join Rayanne Hunter as she demystifies this ancient practice while guiding you through the many benefits of using yoga to create natural healing for body, mind, and soul. You'll learn that yoga doesn't have to be scary, how adaptable it can be for any body, and how it can complement other self-care practices. Bring all of your yoga questions and fears to this workshop. We'll explore them and broaden your understanding of yoga, building the foundation for your further exploration.Transitioning Back to the "Real World" – Dr. Carla Stumpf Patton ... Grand E (C,D)
Transitioning Back Home to "The Real World": Returning home from a TAPS family gathering can leave us with a variety of emotions. Over the past few days, we have been in a caring and loving environment, surrounded by the support of many people who understand our grief. After the event, we will be returning to everyday life where we might not have as many people who can relate to our experiences. This workshop will help you take your new insights and understanding, coping skills, and resources with you to use towards healing and growth in your everyday life, while always remembering that you have your TAPS family to rely on for support when needed.Godwinks – Bonnie Carroll ... Grand J (K)
Some people call them “God Winks,” some call them signs, messages or after-death communication. No matter what we call them, signs from our loved ones can be very present in our lives. Stories and experiences of the presence of our loved ones will be discussed in this open-minded and intimate sharing session.Using Your Voice for Change – Candace Wheeler | Ashley Haycock-Lohmann ... Grand F (G,H)
Learn how the TAPS policy team is advocating for you on Capitol Hill on a variety of issues from remarriage and DIC to toxic exposure. You will also learn how to advocate for yourself and your family. How to find and contact your Members of Congress. How to share your story in a productive way to create change. Your voice matters. YOU can and will make a difference!This session will be live-streamed.Survivor Sharing Groups:
Adult Child ... Arlington I - Sunday, 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Eastern
Family BBQ
Arlington Ballroom
Please join us at our family dinner as we celebrate our weekend together. Brett Jones and the Good Grief Camp graduating senior class of 2023 will be performing a musical piece followed by entertainment with Brett Jones and Frank Myers. - Sunday, 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Eastern
Troops Together
Grand A (B) - Sunday, 9:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Eastern
Care Group (Young Adults, ages 18 - 30)
Grand J (K)
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Monday, May 29, 2023
- Monday, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 a.m. Eastern
Breakfast Buffet
Grand Ballroom - Monday, 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 Eastern
Arlington National Cemetery - Monday, 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. Eastern
National Memorial Day Parade featuring TAPS Float, buses depart at 11:45 a.m. - Monday, 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Grab & Go Lunch
Lobby
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