Along with other “Hospiss LV” volunteer charity projects for the incurably ill, the idea for a support group offering practical and psychological care for caregivers received positive feedback in August 2023. The first support group was formed in person, meeting weekly at the “Hospiss LV” premises on Ernestīnes Street. In response to demand, a new group started online in January, allowing participation from those outside Riga or unable to attend in person.
“Līdzās Būt” supports individuals facing similar life challenges and difficulties – being alongside their incurably ill relative. The goal is to find a place for the miracle of interaction - a place for reflection, support, and strengthening, where one can grieve, strengthen, and rejuvenate with those who understand with just a half-word.
The group is led by two moderators, Irēna Reina and Aleksejs Beloglazovs, both of whom joined “Hospiss LV” due to their own difficult life situations. The main task of the group leaders is to ensure internal safety and coordinate participants so that everyone has time and space to speak, and to prevent disagreements among members.
Since the goal of the support group is to provide support and not to delve into internal psychological processes, it can be led by individuals without a psychological education but with life experience. This includes Irēna, who continues to study psychology and has cared for her mother. “After more than five years of caring for my mother, a disabled person, I realized how important it is to communicate with people with whom you can feel free, talking about what is truly on your heart.”
The winter season group began on January 17, and registration is closed. However, we plan to repeat this support group in the spring. Currently, there is a plan to continue on the Zoom platform, which allows participation from those outside Riga or unable to attend in person due to other reasons. Only a computer or phone with an internet connection and scheduled time on Wednesday evenings are needed. Therefore, if you are a caregiver for an incurably ill relative and want to feel the supportive shoulder of people facing similar challenges, express your desire to apply for the next support group by writing to [email protected] (including your contact information and a brief description of the situation). [email protected] (with your contact details and a brief description of the situation)
The group meets once a week for 12 sessions. Participation in the group is by donation, and the number of participants is limited to 10. Meetings are conducted in Latvian.
