National Bereavement Day – November 20, 2018 – Statement from the Minister of Health

Today is National Bereavement Day, a time for all of us to reflect on the loss of friends and family who have touched our lives. Often, we are so focused on prolonging life and curing illness that very little attention is given to what happens at the end of our lives, and to those who are left behind.

The theme of this year’s campaign, “Grief and bereavement is part of life,” reminds us that we should all take the time to grieve, to remember and to heal. I encourage Canadians to share their personal story if they wish, using the hashtag #GriefDay18.

I would like to thank the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association for its tireless efforts to raise awareness of grief and to help Canadians through all stages of grief. Canadians can learn more about National Bereavement Day and access helpful resources here.

I would also like to take this opportunity to extend my condolences to anyone who is grieving the loss of a loved one. Please remember that you are not alone.

The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Health