Event Phone: 608-775-4747

Presenter: Rachael Kaiser, MS, CCLS

Rachael Kaiser has been a certified child life specialist at Gundersen Health System for 19 years. She proposed and created a child life program in the outpatient surgery center, where she worked for 15 years, before transferring to support inpatient pediatrics and emergency services. Rachael collaborated with the adult critical care unit at Gundersen to create a support program for children of adult patients, focusing on developmentally appropriate preparation for critical care unit visits, explanations of death and dying, and memory-making activities. She has supported many children and families through the grieving process and feels blessed to walk with families through these life-changing experiences.

For several years, Rachael served as an instructor at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, teaching courses on child life, including one specific to grief and loss. She currently coordinates the child life internship program at Gundersen Health System. Rachael continues to work on expanding child life services and improving pediatric patient care throughout the organization.

Topic: Bereavement Support for Children

Providing end-of-life care is challenging. In addition, providing support to children and families after the death of a loved one compounds the emotional challenge. In stressful situations, it’s helpful to have clear, easy-to-follow recommendations and resources—both for healthcare providers and for families experiencing loss. This presentation will examine the first steps to support children after the loss of a sibling, caregiver, or other loved one. Easy and practical memory-making activities will be shared. A variety of books, resources, and recommendations will be provided. The presentation will focus on strengthening the caregiver’s ability to support their child on a journey to reconcile the loss of a loved one.