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HAMILTON — The journey took seven years, but Susan Clock has arrived, coming full circle from client to director of Mending Hearts ministry.

Clock and her children, Jacob and Jessica, started attending the grief support ministry following the death of her husband, Tony, from brain cancer. A counselor at Lakota Independence, where her children attended, gave her a brochure about the program. The West Chester Twp. woman said the support she and her family received from the program, part of John Engle Christian Counseling Center ministries, inspired her pursuit of a master's degree in counseling. She eventually served her internship with Mending Hearts.

"Now I'm healthy enough I can help people," she said.

The faith-based support group recognizes children are often overlooked in the grief process and grieve differently than adults. Activities, based on the child's age, provide a safe means for expressing feelings. Younger children may read stories, draw pictures and have discussion time. Teens often write poetry.

Clock said the goal is not to bring tears, but remember the good times. Children often do not express their feelings, fearing it will upset family members. That fear can be stifling. Mending Hearts provides a vital outlet.

Although the program serves children, ages 4 to 18, an adult group also is available.

Leeanne Myers, JECCC executive director, was enthusiastic about Clock's taking a leadership role. Originally started by Corliss Doxsey, who remains in an advisory capacity, Mending Hearts recently was offered in Fairfield, Edgewood and Hamilton schools. In June, the sessions will again be offered at the JECCC located at First United Methodist Church, 225 Ludlow St.

For more information, call (513) 896-4357.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2169

or pmccracken@coxohio.com.

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