TCF's 33rd National Conference has ended, but the love, caring, and sharing remain in the hearts of those 1350 who were able to attend. Those looking back at what they experienced at the conference have to remember the great keynote speakers, the many grief related workshops, and the Walk to Remember, just to name a few of the highlights. (See Washington Post story: International support group for parents whose children have died meets in Virginia and Arlington Connection story:  Walk Memorializes Young Deaths)

CDs and DVDs now available of conference speakers and workshop presenters

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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!"

Save the Date--July 15-17, 2011 in Minneapolis/St. Paul Minnesota!

A national conference of The Compassionate Friends is unlike any other conference you may ever attend. It is a place where you can go and know that you truly are not alone as you travel your grief journey. Every person comes for the same reason—a child has died. It is a place where “friendship, understanding, and hope” are more than just words.

For over three decades The Compassionate Friends has held national conferences in different locations, from the east coast to the west coast, from north to south. Today it’s normal to have 1100-1400 bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents attend. Of that number, it usually is the first TCF National Conference for over a quarter of those attending. Those new to TCF conferences are given a special butterfly sticker to wear on their nametag so that others may notice and give them special hugs. Everyone feels they are in a place where they belong. We often say that those at the conference are friends you simply have not yet met.

At each conference, there are many activities, but you decide what is right for you. There are more than 100 workshops (but don’t think these are work—they’re really a time for learning and sharing). Many areas of grief are covered by the workshops. There are workshops for bereaved parents, siblings, and grandparents. And there will be many workshops for those who have no surviving children. You’ll find a hospitality room, a reflection room, the Butterfly Boutique, and a completely stocked bookstore. There are very interesting and well-known speakers who address the Opening Session, the Friday afternoon banquet, the Saturday evening banquet, and the Sunday closing. You’ll also marvel at the quality of entertainment geared for those attending. There’s also a special candle lighting ceremony to conclude the Saturday evening banquet. If you like a more intimate time with others, join in the evening sharing sessions of your choice.

But don’t miss the Walk to Remember Sunday at 8 a.m. prior to the closing. As many as 1300-1400 carry the names of more than 10,000 children from across the country who will always be remembered. Some fly in from across the country just to participate in the Walk!

Watch here, in the national e-newsletter, our Facebook Page, or We Need Not Walk Alone for updated information on the next TCF National Conference.

Find out for yourself why notes are received after our conferences that echo these we received:

Best thing I've ever done! Thank you to all the friends I made at the conference. You all inspire me! The memory boards were overwhelming. It was easy to only see the face of my own grief. Now I see all the beautiful faces of yours. I will forever be linked to you. I love you.

It was an amazing experience. I was in a very dark, sad place when I left home to fly to (the conference). When I came home, I felt a glimmer of hope in the possibilities. I learned so much. Met some sweet, caring people. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, it changed me. Thank you, my Compassionate Friends.

"The conference was a drink of water for my soul.  Thank God for TCF and all the wonderful people who give of themselves to make it all happen.  Thank you!!!"

"I always feel like I’m wrapped in a cocoon of compassionate love when I’m at a TCF National Conference. This is one of the greatest healing tools available to a bereaved family."