GRASP Healing Hearts, Changing Paths

GRASP (Grief Recovery After Substance Passing) Conference provides a supportive platform for individuals navigating the complex terrain of grief following the loss of a loved one due to substance use. With a dual focus on addressing personal grief and advocating for drug policy reform, the conference offers support for those navigating grief and a desire to work towards change in drug policies. Attendees engage in discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering understanding, support, and resilience in the face of loss. Emphasizing harm reduction and compassion, the conference serves as a vital forum for promoting drug policies that prioritize human welfare and dignity.

GRASP was established in 2002 by Pat and Russ Wittberger. In 2010, Pat and Russ decided to step back from their leadership roles and Denise and Gary Cullen, who lost thier son, their only child, Jeff, to overdose assumed leadership of GRASP. In 2010 GRASP consisted of three face-to-face peer led support groups. GRASP now consists of over 120 peer-led support groups in the US and Canada. GRASP also provides grief support 24/7 through a closed Facebook group with over 14,000 members where solace and understanding can be found at any time.

GRASP, through its meetings and Facebook Page, provides support, compassion, and understanding for those who have lost a loved one due to their substance use. Broken No More, a 501 (c)(3) organization, was created by Denise and Gary Cullen as a related but separate advocacy organization. Broken No More is dedicated to ending the failed drug policies that have caused devastation in our communities and families and led to the deaths of our loved ones. Many of our GRASP members are also members of Broken No More.

While GRASP provides solace to those who have lost a loved one, it also provides a conduit for those who have seen the destruction caused by failed drug war policies to advocate for change in these policies. Many who have lost their loved one recognize that ultimately their loss was due to the prohibitionist policies of this country. Our sponsor Broken No More provides the means for them to take the pain of this loss and to channel it into positive action; to work to change these policies. They do so to honor the memory of their loved ones and with the understanding that their actions will keep others alive and spare their families the pain they have suffered.

If you are interested in submitting a picture of your loved one to be included in a memorial slideshow presentation, you can do so by emailing it to graspretreat2024@yahoo.com This slideshow will be a private showing only for those in attendance at the GRASP Retreat. Please submit by August 1st.

TENTATIVE GRASP RETREAT AGENDA

Sept. 12:

5-7: Registration

7-9: Opening Reception- included with price of registration

Sept. 13:

9-10: Disenfranchised Grief- Aimee Dunkle

10-12: Interactive Grief Sessions

Navigating the Shadows of Grief: exploring the blame, what ifs and whys of

losing someone to substance use- Tamara Olt

Break from 10:50- 11:00

Echoes of Loss: dealing with holidays and anniversaries- Laura Cash

Left Behind: the legacy of our loved ones belongings- Tracy Kemper-Hermann

Surviving Grief: strategies and coping mechanisms- Aimee Dunkle

12-130: Lunch on your own

1-3:15: The Science of Opioid use Disorder- the Struggle for Survival- Sam Snodgrass

Includes 30 minute Q and A

3:15-3:30: Break

3:30-4:30: Mindful Mourning: grief and the healing power of mindfulness and

meditation

4:30-5:00: Informal GRASP Chapter Leader Gathering

Sept. 14:

9-10:30: The Philosophy and Practice of Harm Reduction- Lisa Raville

10:30-10:45: Break

10:45-11:30: Beyond Scare Tactics: a new look at teen drug education- Chris

Schaffner

11:30-12:00: Naloxone and Fentanyl test Strip training- Chris Schaffner

12-1:30: Lunch on your own

1:30-2:30: Working With the Media to Change Hearts, Minds, and Laws

2:30-3:30: How to Advocate for Change in Drug Policy- Glenn Backes

3:30-3:45: Break

3:45-5:00: Transforming Pain Into Purpose: panel discussion

7:00-9:00: Farewell Dinner: included with price of registration

Book your hotel group rate for Broken No More/GRASP Conference and Retreat

If you have questions or need help with the link, please do not hesitate to call the hotel directly or 1-800-252-7772 and press 1 for reservations. For special requests on reservations, please contact the Sales Office at 505-830-5781 and we can adjust existing reservations.

Event Summary:

Early bird registration ends June 15th

Broken No More/GRASP Conference and Retreat

Start Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024

End Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024

Last Day to Book: Monday, August 12, 2024

Hotel(s) offering your special group rate:

· Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown for 159 USD per night

A Letter from our Executive Director, Dr. Tamara Olt

Greetings and a warm welcome to the 5th Biennial GRASP Conference and Retreat, graciously sponsored by Broken No More. We are delighted to be hosting this event at the Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown Hotel in the picturesque city of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Within this gathering, we have individuals who have traversed the challenging terrain of loss, particularly stemming from the tragedy of overdose or other substance-related causes. Acknowledging the profound difficulty of such experiences, we stand united as a community, prepared to provide mutual support and solace amidst the inevitable highs and lows.

Beginning with our initial event in 2012, GRASP incorporated both the restorative elements of a retreat and the enriching content of a conference. This tradition continues with unwavering dedication, as we recognize the immense value of fostering connections and exchanging knowledge gleaned from shared journeys.

Our esteemed speakers comprise experts renowned in their respective fields, poised to impart invaluable insights and perspectives on navigating the complexities of grief and healing.

I eagerly anticipate reconnecting with familiar faces and extending a warm welcome to newcomers. Whether you are a seasoned participant or embarking on this journey for the first time, know that you are embraced with open arms in our compassionate community. Let us collectively create cherished memories and meaningful connections during this gathering.

Tamara Olt, MD

Executive Director