TOLEDO—Although some women report little trauma following abortion, for many the experience can be devastating. Experts say it is normal for women to grieve a pregnancy loss, including a loss of a child due to an abortion.

To help women who are experiencing this loss, Heartbeat of Toledo is forming “Hope & Healing,” a post-abortion support group. The group’s first meeting is planned for 7 p.m. Aug. 17 at Heartbeat’s office, 4041 W. Sylvania Ave., Suite LL4, across from Westfield Franklin Park.

“Many women who have had an abortion have kept this a secret for many years,” says Pat Todak, executive director of Heartbeat of Toledo. “This secrecy has likely added to the stress these women are feeling.”

The goal of Hope & Healing, Mrs. Todak says, is to help these women realize they are not alone and to help them forgive themselves and be able to grieve the lost.

“The group will be tailored to meet the needs of the women who participate,” Mrs. Todak says. “Everyone is welcome — women of all ages and situations — whether they want to share or just listen.” She added that everything shared in the meeting is to be confidential.

For more information about Hope & Healing, please call Heartbeat at 419-241-9131.