VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Students at Killarney Secondary School in Vancouver are asking for your help. They still need donations to pay for the funeral of a 17-year-old classmate who died of a rare form of leukemia last week.
Vancouver psychologist Dr. Derek Swain says by taking an active role in helping Autumn Rose’s family, it’s helping her friends grieve while dealing with the loss head-on.
Swain adds this is also a good life lesson for anyone who may have never lost anyone before, explaining they can lean on friends who have experienced death of a family member — or even pet — for comfort.
“We’re all going to be confronted with losses and the important thing is to be able to acknowledge those losses and to find support,” he tells us.
He notes students who are having trouble dealing with death should speak to a counsellor. “Students can realize that the loss certainly is sad, but life still does go on. There are ways to be resilient and to enjoy life.”
Students are hoping to raise at least $5,000.
Rose kept up with her school work while being treated at BC Children’s Hospital and she was accepted to the University of Victoria shortly before her death.
If you would like to help, you can drop off cash or cheques at the school at 6454 Killarney Street in East Vancouver.
A memorial in Rose’s honour is being held at Coastal Church on West Georgia Street tomorrow.
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Fundraising helps local students cope with death: doc
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