Audrey Hunt and Margaret Payne experienced more than grief support in a Victoria Hospice walking group. They found friendship to last the decades.
New to Victoria and recently widowed, Audrey felt alone and a little daunted at the prospect of joining the group, she says.
“When I first drove into the parking lot, I didn’t want to get out of the car. I was suddenly scared stiff! I was used to going everywhere with my husband. But the volunteers welcomed me with open arms.”
Margaret’s husband had died the previous year and she was among the group on the fateful day of their first meeting.
“Audrey became my walking partner and she still is,” Margaret says.
More than 20 years on, Audrey and Margaret still walk together every week, sharing life’s ups and downs and fond memories of the walking group.
“Being with people who knew what you were going through was wonderful. They helped you because they knew what helped them, and there was always someone to talk to,” Margaret says. “If you burst into tears, you didn’t feel embarrassed, because everyone had all gone through the same thing.”
That connection with others who understand the experience of grief – no matter their age, gender, or culture – was key to getting through hard times, they say.
“It was the best thing that could have happened, because I didn’t know anyone. I got to know a group of people and we all came from different backgrounds,” Audrey says.
“Knowing you’re not alone is so important, and having something to look forward to during the week,” Margaret says. When you’re at home, without your significant other who had always been there, it can be hard. But it’s good to get together and walk with others who are going through the same thing. You can easily talk with them because they understand.”
Gratitude for their experience led both Audrey and Margaret to become dedicated Victoria Hospice donors. Contact us to learn more about you can support Bereavement Services.