Community Corner

Grief Support Offered at HUGS During Wake for Cameron Nicholls

HUGS' Westhampton Beach doors will be open from 2 to 9 p.m. for parents and students.

Since the tragic death of Cameron Nicholls on Sunday, HUGS of Westhampton Beach has been getting numerous calls from parents looking for advice on how to help their children cope with the loss of their peer. In response, HUGS has decided to open their doors during Cameron Nicholls’ wake to offer support to parents and students.

HUGS, at 110 Mill Road in Westhampton Beach, is just a short walk from the Follett & Wearner Funeral Home, the site of the wake from 2 to 9 p.m.

“Seven hours is a long time to process grief,” said Kym Laube, director of HUGS.  “So if parents and students want to catch their breath or parents want to give their children some space at the wake, they can come to our office.”

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Laube said HUGS will have light snacks and coffee on hand.

While HUGS is a nonprofit that instructs in and does not provide counseling services, Laube said HUGS will have information for parents on helping their children cope with grief.

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“Mainly what we are telling parents is to listen to their children and allow them to share what they need to. Often times, we tell kids to be strong, but the truth is when we express our feelings that is being strong,” said Laube. “We are also reminding parents to allow their kids to cry if they need to and share good memories.”

To learn more about helping your teen grieve, click here.


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