Support Groups

At CHKD, we want to offer parents, patients and family members access to as many support resources as possible. We offer several support groups right here at CHKD. Below is a list of the ongoing groups available. We are always interested in starting new groups, so if you want to develop a special interest group, let us know and we'll be happy to share ideas.

XIBS (Extremely Important Brothers and Sisters)

XIBS is a program for siblings of CHKD oncology patients. The program is designed to minimize the harm of cancer on siblings and to provide education and support. The program is open to siblings 5-14 years old.

"Dine and Discover"

Dine and Discover is a support and education group for CHKD NICU families. The meetings are facilitated by a social worker and parent support coordinator (NICU graduate parent) to connect families with one another, offer support and to provide education opportunities. The group meets twice a month on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

For more information, email Rachel Houck or Maureen Heald or call them at (757) 668-7941.

Food Allergy Support Group of Tidewater (FASGOT)

FASGOT is a support group for parents and families of children with food allergies. Our mission is to provide educational support about food allergies to the community. Meetings are held monthly (evening hours). The fee is $20, but there is no charge for medical and educational professionals. Refreshments will be served.

For more information and meeting dates, please visit the FASGOT Facebook page.

Bereaved Parent Support Group - Now Offered Via Zoom Meeting

Open to parents who have experienced the death of a child. This group is designed to offer and provide a safe and supportive environment for parents to share and process their grief. Trained pediatric chaplains and social workers serve as facilitators. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. In light of COVID-19 restrictions, this group will meet via Zoom meeting.

To RSVP, please email Anne Kesner  or call (757) 668-9661. 

Healing Hearts Family Support Group on Facebook

For parents and siblings of past and present Cardiac/Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) patients, the Healing Hearts Family Support Group is an active private Facebook group which has an online support group for local families impacted by congenital heart defects. This is a great way for families to connect, gain support, ask questions, and share their journey. The group is being administered by Amber Vann and Crystal McCullough. Please contact them via Facebook, “Healing Hearts Family Support Group (MLHCoVa).”