Austin Hatcher Foundation Hosts Healing-Focused Grief Camp for Children and Teens Coping with Loss
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (July 31, 2025) – On July 16, the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer hosted its annual Grief Camp, a one-day therapeutic program for children and teens who have lost a loved one. This year’s theme, “The Kaleidoscope of Grief,” focused on the ever-changing nature of grief and how healing can take many forms.
Led by the Foundation’s licensed clinical team, campers participated in expressive arts, movement, gardening, and cooking activities that helped them process difficult emotions and explore healthy coping tools. From creating kaleidoscopes out of “broken” pieces to decorating flower pots and cookies in honor of those they’ve lost, each session provided a creative outlet for expression and remembrance.
One of the most powerful activities was Web of Connection. Each camper shared a feeling they experienced when their loved one died, and anyone who had felt the same raised their hand. A ball of yarn was passed between us, creating a giant web that visually showed how connected we all are–even in grief.
“Grief is complicated,” said Mindy Brown, Department Head of Family Services. “But through activities and shared experiences like these, our campers found ways to express themselves, connect with others, and feel truly seen.”
Brown added, “By the end of the day, there was a strong sense of community, healing, and hope. It was incredible to see the growth of the kids who have been part of our monthly Family Grief Series or attended Grief Camp before, and how they have continued processing grief as they grow older. It was equally powerful to see kids at their first grief program find a sense of community and connection with peers who have walked similar journeys. The overall takeaway seemed to be: grief may be messy and ever-changing, but no one has to face it alone.”
Grief Camp is one of many free services offered by the Foundation to support families affected by pediatric cancer. To learn more, visit www.hatcherfoundation.org.
