Adam’s Story

Adam was diagnosed November 14, 2007 with an inoperable brainstem tumor. His prognosis – 12 to 14 months. After much research we found ourselves at St. Jude Children Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. After 31 radiation treatments and a clinical trial chemotherapy, we came back to Michigan on January 17, 2008.

Adam had 6 months of tumor stability, which provided us the chance to take him to Walt Disney World through Make-A-Wish Foundation. We were also able to take him to our family’s lake house in Harrison, MI. This is a place he loved and referenced frequently during time spent at St. Jude Children Research Hospital.

In June, 2008, we began to notice Adam’s symptoms returning. On July 10th, our fears were confirmed; the tumor was progressing. We changed chemotherapies, but the chances of it working to help him were next to nothing. Adam worsened and passed away September 21, 2008, after two months of slowly watching him fade from this world.

Adam had a 15 and 2 year old sister at the time of his passing. How would we help them and ourselves deal with losing him? We realized in talking with other parents, there seemed to be several families dealing with a loss here in Jackson, MI. Why not bring this special community (that no one should belong to) together? On December 11, 2008, Another Day Another Memory (A.D.A.M) was born. Adam loved to do things for others; we want to continue that on for him. We know he would be proud.

“A non-profit organization supporting grieving parents and children”

Support

We are glad that you have found us, but are saddened that you have a reason to search for an organization such as ours. We hope that A.D.A.M. can help provide you a comfortable and safe place to be with your grief, on your own or in the company of others who understand. A.D.A.M. also offers a place to celebrate and reflect on the life of your loved one.

The purpose of A.D.A.M. is to provide bereaved children and adults in the Jackson, MI, and the surrounding areas with resources and most importantly support to assist in the grieving process. Our support comes directly from parents, children, counselors, and professionals, who have experienced the devastation the death of child or another loved one brings.

Going to a Meeting for the First Time

No one is required to talk at any meetings. We understand how difficult that can be when grief is either days or weeks old, or months or years. We listen to what those amongst us have to say and respect that they have a right to feel what they feel. We know that just as everyone of us is different, so is our way of grieving. This includes grieving in silence. You will find that many people need to express their feelings, while others gain strength from listening and knowing that they are in the company of others who feel as they do, even if they cannot or choose not to express it. The meetings are meant to be above all a safe place to simply feel what you are feeling in the company of others you know understand.

What happens at a meeting?

Most meetings are a relaxed weekly “check in”. This involves introducing each group member, sharing thoughts and feelings, listening to others, and seeing how the previous week has gone for participants. There is always a trained facilitator that facilitates the sharing circle by introducing a feeling or topic that all can relate to and have a chance to share how they feel about that issue. Once again, no one is required to speak and often some of the most meaningful moments involve silence.

Meeting Location

Meetings are held at Adam’s House, 3027 Wildwood Ave, in Jackson, Michigan. (View map or get directions)