A free monthly grief support group will be offered in Sigourney throughout 2027, open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one.
The group is led by Jaci Conard-Jarmes, a pastor, spiritual care provider, and bereavement counselor with Essence of Life Hospice, and is hosted at the Keokuk County Hospice Foundation building at 420 N. Main St. in Sigourney. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. No registration is required.
The group is designed to provide a safe place to process grief and learn about grief-related topics. Monthly discussion topics are scheduled as follows:
Jan. 21 — The Landscape of Grief
Feb. 18 — Telling the Story & Honoring the Person
March 18 — Secondary Losses & Hidden Changes
April 15 — Navigating Difficult Emotions (Anger, Guilt, Regret)
May 20 — Relationships, Boundaries & “Grief Clumsiness”
June 17 — Physical Grief, Sleep & Self-Compassion
July 15 — The Duality of Grief: Carrying Pain & Hope
Aug. 19 — Sorting Belongings & Tangible Reminders
Sept. 16 — Continuing Bonds & Living Memories
Oct. 21 — Special Days, Anniversaries & Milestones
Nov. 18 — Approaching the Holidays
Dec. 16 — Reflecting on the Year & Looking Forward
For more information, contact Conard-Jarmes at jaci.jarmes@essencehospice.com or Melyse Sparks, assistant administrator, nurse, and certified grief support specialist, at melyse.sparks@essencehospice.com. Both can also be reached by phone at (319) 622-3195.
