Remembering Lt. Hunter and Learning How to Grieve

Today marks three years since the passing of Lt. Christopher Hunter.

Early on the morning of November 15, 2014 Lt. Hunter went into cardiac arrest at home. Lt. Hunter passed away that day despite valiant efforts by firefighters from the Cinnaminson Fire Department, police officers from the Cinnaminson Police Department, EMTs from the Palmyra Cinnaminson Riverton Emergency Medical Service, and Paramedics from Virtua.

All of the first responders who assisted Lt. Hunter that morning either worked with him at the firehouse or on various emergency situations throughout the years.

Lt. Hunter passed away less than 24 hours from answering his final call with the Cinnaminson Fire Department, a carbon monoxide alarm in Cinnaminson, making his death a line of duty death.

The passing of Lt. Hunter led to the creation of the Hunter's Heroes Foundation, a non-profit organization whose goal is to educate and motivate both first responders and their families about the stresses and dangers of working in the fire service and other emergency services.

As we remember all that Lt. Hunter meant to members of the foundation, the Cinnaminson Fire Department, the Hunter family, and the community as a whole, we'd like to educate you on how family members can grieve following the tragic loss of a loved one.

Honor Their Memory

One of the best ways to grieve following the loss of a loved one is to honor him or her as you see fit. The Hunter family did so by creating the foundation. You can donate to their favorite charity, perform charity work in their name, memorialize their favorite item, read their favorite book, write them a letter, create a scholarship in their name, take a trip you always talked about and more.

Talk about Them

One of the best things you can do during the grieving process is to talk about your loved one. Share memories with family and friends. Discuss the dreams you had with your loved one. Talk as much as possible. Try to tell some funny stories so you can laugh. Talking helps with the healing process and prevents you from shutting yourself out from the world.

Join a Support Group

There's no right or wrong answer when asking how you should grieve the loss of a loved one. Everyone handles grief differently. Another option for you is to join a support group. Support groups make it easier for you to discuss your situation, your feelings, and open up because you will be in the presence of people who have gone through, or are going through the same thing as you.

Surround Yourself with Love

This seems like a obvious thing to do but for some it is very hard. Many people grieving the loss of a loved one want to be alone. You need love in your life as much as possible. Whether it's from your children, your adult kids, friends, your parents, or other family members; love goes a long way in helping you grieve the loss of a loved one.

If you are interested in our mission, please visit our website to learn more about the foundation.