Finding Healing Through Grief: A Family’s Journey at Comfort Zone Camp
In the wake of tragedy, communities often emerge as vital sources of support and healing. For Emily Laber-Warren and her twin sons, the nonprofit Comfort Zone Camp has become a beacon of hope following the devastating loss of their father, Steven Warren. This organization, dedicated to helping children cope with the death of a loved one, has provided a transformative experience for the family, allowing them to navigate their grief together.
A Heartbreaking Loss
The journey began in February 2021 when Steven Warren, a software developer and father, went missing. After nearly three years of uncertainty, the family received the heartbreaking news on March 15, 2024, that Steven had died by suicide. This revelation was not only shocking but also layered with complexity, as Laber-Warren described the emotional turmoil of learning that her ex-husband had taken his own life.
“Receiving the news was a profound shock,” she shared. “The fact that he took his own life added another layer of intensity that was hard to process.” The family had been holding onto hope, celebrating Steven’s birthday each year with special dinners to keep his memory alive. However, deep down, Laber-Warren and her sons sensed the tragic truth.
The Impact of Suicide
Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with over 49,000 lives lost in 2023 alone. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that this equates to one death every 11 minutes. For families left behind, the aftermath can be particularly harrowing. Laber-Warren noted that the nature of suicide can be “shocking” and “violent,” leaving loved ones grappling with unanswered questions and profound grief.
A Journey Through Grief
Emily Laber-Warren, a journalism professor, met Steven at a record label party in New York City in her early 30s. Their relationship blossomed, leading to marriage in 2003 and the birth of their twin sons, Jeremy and Nate. Despite Steven’s struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues, he was a loving father during their early years. However, as time passed, his challenges became more pronounced, leading to a gradual withdrawal from the family.
The couple separated in 2016, and while Steven initially maintained contact with his sons, his mental health deteriorated, culminating in homelessness and incarceration. By 2019, his struggles had escalated, and he became increasingly isolated. Laber-Warren described how the family remained in touch, primarily through video calls during the COVID-19 pandemic, until his sudden disappearance.
Discovering Comfort Zone Camp
After the devastating news of Steven’s death, Laber-Warren sought ways to help her sons process their grief. This search led her to Comfort Zone Camp, a nonprofit organization founded in Virginia in 1998 by Lynne Hughes. Hughes, who lost both parents at a young age, created the camp to provide a supportive environment for children grappling with loss. The camp offers free three-day sessions across 12 states, focusing on healing through shared experiences.
Laber-Warren emphasized the importance of the camp for her sons: “They have a place to go where not only can they share their feelings, but they can hear other kids and support each other through their grieving journey.” The camp features traditional activities like archery and swimming, alongside support groups known as “Healing Circles” and a camp-wide memorial service.
A Transformative Experience
In August 2024, just months after learning about their father’s death, Jeremy attended his first camp session, followed by Nate in October. The decision to send them separately allowed each son to process their grief individually. Later, the entire family participated in a suicide loss camp, further solidifying their bond and understanding of one another’s experiences.
Nate expressed the profound connections formed at the camp, stating, “Most of them have gone through somewhat similar experiences or have lost someone themselves. I just feel like everybody there, without fail, is just so welcoming.” This sense of community has been instrumental in their healing process.
Empowerment Through Service
The brothers have continued their involvement with Comfort Zone Camp, returning as mentors and volunteers. Jeremy took on the role of a “Big Buddy,” while Nate assisted in the “Healing Circle.” Laber-Warren noted the empowerment and solace the camp has provided, stating, “It’s brought so much, not just solace, but a sense of empowerment and community. I hope I can watch my kids grow up with this burden and not feel that it has to drag them down.”
The Legacy of Comfort Zone Camp
Since its inception, Comfort Zone Camp has served over 25,000 children, providing a safe space for those grappling with loss. Hughes’s vision of creating a supportive environment for grieving children has resonated deeply, especially in the wake of national tragedies, such as the 9/11 attacks, which highlighted the need for such resources.
Laber-Warren’s experience underscores the importance of community support in the grieving process. The camp not only offers activities and camaraderie but also fosters an environment where children can openly discuss their feelings and experiences. This approach is crucial in helping them navigate the complexities of grief, particularly in cases of suicide, which can carry a stigma that complicates the healing journey.
Conclusion
The journey of Emily Laber-Warren and her sons illustrates the profound impact of community and support in the face of unimaginable loss. Through Comfort Zone Camp, they have found a path toward healing, connection, and empowerment. As they continue to navigate their grief, the lessons learned and the relationships formed at the camp will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping their futures. In a world where mental health challenges and loss are all too common, initiatives like Comfort Zone Camp serve as vital lifelines for families seeking solace and understanding.
