The Compassionate Friends/USA, is pleased to announce that, in conjunction with the 35th National Conference, it will also be hosting The Compassionate Friends 5th International Gathering. The combined conference will be held July 20-22, 2012 in beautiful Costa Mesa, California.
"We welcome to this conference all who are grieving the death of a child, for grief is a universal language and one that TCF'ers around the world know all too well," says TCF/USA Executive Director Patricia Loder.
CALL FOR PRESENTERS: A variety of workshops are offered during the National Conference to meet
the needs of all attendees. Persons interested in submitting a Call for
Presenters form for next year's conference click here. Forms must be received by October 15.
Because many people will be traveling long distances from countries around the world, special excursions are being planned for before and after the conference, so everyone is invited to combine their stay with visits to some of California's great attractions.
The conference, the second International Gathering held in the United States, will be hosted at the Hilton Orange County Costa Mesa Hotel, described as one "that exemplifies class, and elegance with a modern twist." TCF will have a block of rooms available at $129 USD for up to four occupants (King bed or double beds). You can read about the hotel in English, Spanish, and French at Hilton Orange County Costa Mesa..
Reservations for the hotel and registration for the conference cannot be made now, but will begin online earlier than normal for TCF conferences. With TCF/USA's 2011 National Conference taking place July 15-17, every effort is being made to make this year's conference a great precursor to next year's international event.
Watch here for the latest details, as they develop, on this event!
Comments from Compassionate Friends who attended the 33rd National Conference held in Arlington:
"An amazing experience. My first conference and it was more than I could have hoped for. What a connection to so many beautiful people. My 17-year-old son came with me and I was so blessed to see him participate and meet so many wonderful people. Keep up all the work for sibs - they are so overlooked in society when it comes to grieving a sister or brother. We are both planning on being at next year's conference!"
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"I loved everything about the conference. It was my first year anniversary on the 4th and I couldn't have been in a better place. I had a couple of 'ah hah' moments that have made my life better. It's the best I have felt since I lost my only child. Thanks to all who worked on this conference."
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"Absolutely wonderful conference. The candle light ceremony was especially moving. I met some wonderful people while at the conference and heard many stories of people's journey in life since the deaths of their children. Thanks to everyone who made this conference a reality for all of us."
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"Going to the national conference gave me the courage to finally voice my feelings about being a surviving sib. Thank you to my fellow siblings for helping me find that voice! I cannot wait to meet up with you all in MN!"