Grief in Motion Helps Kids to Heal

Camp Treehouse is a free day-camp for kids ages 6-18, who have lost a loved one and are working to process their grief. The Center for Grief and Healing’s arts-themed camp series explores how to create healing space for the unspeakable through art, music and movement. 

The last of three camps was held, Sat., June 17, at the Southwest Virginia Ballet in Roanoke. Together, Pedro Szalay, SWVB director, and nearly 20 children created a dance based on movements and gestures, related to memories of their lost loved ones. One teen shared, "When I pretend to be dribbling a ball, it reminds me of the basketball games I played with my dad in the driveway." The dance was then performed for the caregivers and parents, and very few dry eyes were left in the studio. Live music added to the sacredness of the day.  

Thanks to the many volunteers that made this camp series so successful! 

In partnership with Carilion Research, we implemented a research plan to assess grief-related trauma symptoms and group-support outcomes connected to Camp Treehouse. Learn about upcoming camps at CarilionClinic.org/grief.