Hi Team.  Thank you for coming to together to support our colleague, Annette Towler.  I think many of us know Annette's love story with Gardner.  Unfortunately, he was suddenly placed on life support shortly after the Christmas holiday and passed away on Thursday, January 4.  This page is to provide ongoing support for Annette in the upcoming weeks as she adjusts and grieves the loss of her partner.

Loss of a Partner / Spouse

Grief/Loss

Annette Towler

Supporting Annette T.

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With your favorite restaurants at your fingertips, DoorDash satisfies your cravings and connects you with possibilities -- more time and energy for yourself and those you love.
Why We Love This Gift: In every situation, food is necessary. Let your recipient select exactly what they want to eat - and have it delivered. Win and Win.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you and I want you to eat something that appeals to you. You choose. xo

DoorDash

DoorDash - DoorDash Gift Card

<a href="https://instacart.oloiyb.net/c/1246143/413183/7412" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Instacart</a> is a grocery delivery service that delivers in as little as an hour. They connect you with Personal Shoppers in your area who pick up and deliver your groceries from your favorite local stores.
Why We Love This Gift: Shopping for groceries is a chore under the best of circumstances. For families facing a new lift event or crisis, it is very often incredibly stressful. The gift of a cupboard full of basic necessities is tremendous. It is a wonderful way to remind those you love that you have not forgotten the day-to-day challenges they face. You are telling them in no uncertain terms that they are not alone.
What to Express in Your Card: I was thinking about the things you have to get done every day. I hope you'll let me help a little by giving me a chance to buy you some groceries - and have them delivered to you. Just one lest task for you to worry about. I send you my love.

Instacart

Instacart - Instacart Gift Card

Give the gift of take-out. Seriously, the perfect gift for any situation.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it is take-out and everyone loves take-out. It gives your recipient the flexibility to order exactly what they want, when they want it. Pregnancy cravings are no joke. Neither is the stress level of a single parent on a school night. Young professionals who get sick often hate the loss of their own agency. The capacity to choose one's own dinner is not to be underestimated. Nothing says I love you like Pad Thai.
What To Express in Your Card: I wanted you to be able to choose your own meal. I am thinking of you!

Grubhub

Grubhub - Grubhub Gift Card

Written after his wife's tragic death as a way of surviving the "mad midnight moment," A Grief Observed is C.S. Lewis's honest reflection on the fundamental issues of life, death, and faith in the midst of loss. This work contains his concise, genuine reflections on that period: "Nothing will shake a man -- or at any rate a man like me -- out of his merely verbal thinking and his merely notional beliefs. He has to be knocked silly before he comes to his senses. Only torture will bring out the truth. Only under torture does he discover it himself." This is a beautiful and unflinchingly honest record of how even a stalwart believer can lose all sense of meaning in the universe, and how he can gradually regain his bearings.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it is an honest exploration of grief written from the perspective of a preeminent male writer. It explores and conveys universal truths about what it means to live, to love, to mourn. (Patton Oswalt recently described this book as helpful to him following the sudden death of his wife earlier in 2016).
What To Express In Your Card: I am heartbroken for you. I am thinking of you constantly and I am sending you all the support I can offer. Ask me anything.

A Grief Observed

Amazon

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world.
Why We Love This Gift: Because it is coffee. We love this gift for that reason, but also because coffee (and tea) can facilitate conversation. People stop and talk over coffee and tea. Barista-made cups of coffee or steaming cups of hot tea are among life's "little" indulgences - the kind of thing that lifts people up. They are also among the first things people slash from tight budgets. Help them put it back. This gift is suitable for anyone to whom you want to express concern, consideration, or love. Also, here is a hot tip: teenagers love Starbucks. It is a great gift for a teenager.
What to Express in Your Card: I was just thinking about you as you grapple with recent events. I hope you will take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee - I know you are a latte fan. Maybe we can even meet for a cup? I'd love to know how you are doing and what I can do to be helpful. I send you lots of love.

Starbucks

Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting the highest quality arabica coffee in the world. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world.

Starbucks - Starbucks Gift Card

With Smilebox, creating virtual greeting cards lets you show how much you care in a beautiful and meaningful way! From birthdays and holidays to get well and sympathy greeting cards, this Digital Greeting Card Maker has just the card designs for all of life's moments.
No matter which card you choose, Smilebox makes it easy for you to add your personal touch. Change colors, fonts, and text at will - every adaptation is shown immediately in the card maker!
Want to send your card as an animated slideshow? Smilebox's slideshow maker comes complete with templates for every occasion. You can make intricate slideshows with music in minutes - along with your favorite photos, songs and personalized captions.
Why We Love This Gift: We absolutely love how you can go above and beyond when customizing your card to feel extra personal. Nothing says "I love and am thinking of you," more than a slideshow of sentimental photos.

Smilebox: Digital Greeting Card Maker

With Smilebox, creating virtual greeting cards lets you show mow much you care in a beautiful and meaningful way! From birthdays and holidays to get well and sympathy greeting cards, this Digital Greeting Card Maker has just the card designs for all of life&#8217;s moments.

Smilebox

GiftTree offers a wide range of sympathy baskets. Owing to their wide selection, GiftTree is able to ensure that customers can find a bereavement basket that speaks to their individual situation.
GiftTree understands that the emptiness left behind by the loss of a loved one is the ultimate hardship. However, it is during the most trying and difficult times of our lives that a kind gesture is most deeply appreciated. The items in their baskets will bring sustenance to anyone is who experiencing loss.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because it addresses the issue of grief hunger. Grief hunger is a thing - some Give InKind editors agree that grief is exhausting. It is also, weirdly, episodically hungry-making. Plus there are the people stopping by. Snacks are always welcome in the home of the bereaved. A great alternative to flowers for those who have passed on receiving flowers.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you and sending you condolences.

Sympathy Gifts from GiftTree

GiftTree

The beautiful practicality of her teaching has made Pema Chödrön one of the most beloved of contemporary American spiritual authors among Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. A collection of talks she gave between 1987 and 1994, the book is a treasury of wisdom for going on living when we are overcome by pain and difficulties.
Much like Zen, Chödrön's interpretation of Tibetan Buddhism takes the form of a non-theistic spiritualism. In When Things Fall Apart, this head of a Tibetan monastery in Canada outlines some relevant and deceptively profound terms of Tibetan Buddhism that are germane to modern issues.
By letting go, we free ourselves to face fear and obstacles and offer ourselves unflinchingly to others. The graceful, conversational tone of Chödrön's writing gives the impression of sitting on a pillow across from her, listening to her everyday examples of Buddhist wisdom.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because we have discovered that in times of crisis, we are sometimes open to concepts we would have struggled to embrace prior to crisis. This book beautifully expresses that finding truth and beauty within the darkest times is possible. (Even if we'd give it all back to return to the pace where our lost loved one is, or the place we were happy). Making sense of struggle and loss is a universal struggle. This book reminds us of this, showing us we are not alone.
What To Express in Your Card: I struggled to find something that would help you. Something that would match the level of pain you are in and then salve it. Of course I couldn't do that, but I hoped that Chödrön could succeed where I know I will fail. Please accept this book along with my love.

When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times

Brinker International is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies. With more than 1,600 restaurants and over 100,000 Team Members in 31 countries and two territories, they welcome more than one million Guests into Chili's and Maggiano's restaurants every day.
Why We Love This Gift: Brinker International is driven by integrity, teamwork, and passion - plus an unwavering commitment for every Guest to have an exceptional dining experience when visiting. For a family in need of a break at one of their favorite restaurants, this is the perfect gift.
What To Express In Your Card: Sending a gift I know you will love. Please, call me anytime.

Brinker International

Brinker International is one of the world&#8217;s leading casual dining restaurant companies. With more than 1,600 restaurants and over 100,000 Team Members in 31 countries and two territories, they welcome more than one million Guests into Chili&#8217;s and Maggiano&#8217;s restaurants every day.

Target

Brinker International - Brinker International (Chili's & Maggiano's) Gift Card

Panera Bread is committed to providing great-tasting, quality food that people can trust.
Highlighted by antibiotic-free chicken, whole grain bread, select organic and all-natural ingredients, and a menu free of man-made trans-fat, Panera is committed to providing great tasting quality food people can trust.
With a wide variety of year-round favorites, their menu is complemented by new items introduced seasonally with the goal of creating new standards in everyday food choices. In neighborhoods across the country, guests are enjoying Panera's warm and welcoming environment featuring comfortable gathering areas, relaxing decor, and free Wi-Fi access.
Why We Love This Gift: We like convenient, comfortable, and quality chain restaurant food. You know who else might like it? Anyone who has reason to spend time with a sick relative in a hospital. Chain restaurants can provide a valuable change of scene and a little headspace.
What To Express In Your Card: Please stop for a minute and eat something. Let's catch up soon? I love and miss you.

Panera Bread

Panera Bread is committed to providing great-tasting, quality food that people can trust.

Panera Bread - Panera Gift Card

The Darden&reg; Restaurants Gift Card provides 9 distinguished and diverse restaurants on one card.  From Olive Garden's never-ending servings of our freshly baked breadsticks and iconic garden fresh salad to fresh, boldly seasoned and expertly grilled steaks - like the signature bone-in Outlaw Ribeye&reg; at LongHorn Steakhouse, we have one card with all your favorites.    Darden&reg; Restaurants Gift Card can be redeemed at any Olive Garden&reg;, LongHorn Steakhouse&reg;, Yard House&reg;, Ruth's Chris&reg; Steak House, Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen&reg;, The Capital Grille, Seasons 52&reg;, Eddie V's and Bahama Breeze&reg; restaurants in the U.S.  Gift Cards can be redeemed for Online To Go, Catering and Dine-In meals.
What To Express In Your Card: I am thinking about you so much. Please, take a few minutes and get something to eat and drink on me.

Darden Restaurants

With over 1,500 restaurants in all 50 states, the Darden Gift Card is redeemable at some of the most recognizable brands in full-service dining including Olive Garden®, LongHorn Steakhouse®, Bahama Breeze®, Seasons 52®, Yard House®, and Cheddar&#8217;s® among others.

Darden Restaurants - Bahama Breeze Gift Card

In It's OK That You're Not OK, Megan Devine offers a unique guide through an experience we all must face - in our personal lives, in the lives of those we love, and in the wider world. This is a book for grieving people, those who love them, and all those seeking to love themselves―and each other―better.
In this compelling and heartfelt book, you'll learn:
• Why well-meaning advice, therapy, and spiritual wisdom so often end up making it harder for people in grief 
• How challenging the myths of grief―doing away with stages, timetables, and unrealistic ideals about how grief should unfold―allows us to accept grief as a mystery to be honored instead of a problem to solve 
• Practical guidance for managing stress, improving sleep, and decreasing anxiety without trying to "fix" your pain 
• How to help the people you love―with essays to teach us the best skills, checklists, and suggestions for supporting and comforting others through the grieving process.
Why We Love This Gift: Megan offers a profound new approach to both the experience of grief and the way we try to help others who have endured tragedy. Having experienced grief from both sides―as both a therapist and as a woman who witnessed the accidental drowning of her beloved partner―Megan writes with deep insight about the unspoken truths of loss, love, and healing. She debunks the culturally prescribed goal of returning to a normal, "happy" life, replacing it with a far healthier middle path, one that invites us to build a life alongside grief rather than seeking to overcome it.
What To Express in Your Card: I hope this book reminds you that what you are feeling right now is normal and healthy- no matter how terrible or overwhelming. Please remind yourself of your strength. Sending you so much love.

It's Ok That You're Not Ok

Loss hurts. It's tough to go through, and painful to watch. Bestselling author, hospice chaplain, and grief specialist Gary Roe gives you a look at the grieving heart - the thoughts, emotions, and struggles within. If you're wanting to help someone who's grieving, you'll get a glimpse of what's going on inside them and be better able to love and support them. This practical and easy-to-read book provides the answers you need to make a difference - in your own life and in the lives of others.
Why We Love This Gift: It is very difficult to bear witness to grief. The impulse to stand a bit apart is understandable. And still this impulse inadvertently strands those we love. This book provides greater understanding into death and mourning. We like the gifts that start the conversations.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking of you and of your family so much.
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Please Be Patient, I'm Grieving: How to Care For and Support the Grieving Heart

Healing a Spouse's Grieving Heart offers 100 practical, here-and-now suggestions for helping widowers or widows mourn the loss of a spouse or partner. Intended to provide a framework for coping and helping surviving spouses to integrate their grief and chart a course for their future.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because we like to find ways to encourage people to talk about the experience of grief. The first step towards that is to make sense of it. Or to try. We offer this respectfully. We have been there.
What To Express in Your Card: I am thinking so much about you. I was hoping we could meet for dinner. Are you free on Monday? I would like to listen if you would like to talk.

Healing a Spouse's Grieving Heart

A companion to Healing After Loss, the wise and timeless bereavement companion that has helped thousands cope with grief since 1994, this page-a-day journal guides people through grief.
Why We Love This Gift: We love this gift because we believe that quiet reflection is a useful way to learn to sit with grief. This is offered respectfully. We have been there. We know that it is so hard.
What To Express in Your Card: May I come and meditate with you sometime? Or, if that is too much and too personal, is there anything you would like to talk about? I am here to listen.

Healing After Loss: Daily Meditations For Working Through Grief

Give your friends and loved ones the gift of entertainment with AMC gift cards. Good for both movies and concessions and reloadable at any AMC theatre in the United States.
Why We Love This Gift: Perfect for anyone in need of a pick-me-up. We love this gift because it provides an escape into a movie of your recipient's choosing, which can often help them clear their heads.
What To Express In Your Card: I know you have a lot on your mind right now. I hoped that you would enjoy a movie. I wanted to provide what little escapism I am able - I'd love to join you if you'll have me. Sending you lots of love.

AMC Theatres&reg;

AMC Theatres&reg; - AMC Theatres Gift Card

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Give InKind

General Support

Setting up a food train is one of the best ways to help support someone you love. Here are some tips on how to give groceries as a gift.

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train

How to Give Groceries as a Gift for a Meal Train - Give InKind

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Modern Couple At Coffee Shop

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David Shafer

Best-selling author David Shafer on why it is better to acknowledge grief - even if we say the wrong thing. Visit Give InKind for articles, information, and a new way to schedule meals and offer concrete assistance to the bereaved.

Grief: Better To Say The Wrong Thing Than Nothing At All

New York Times Best-selling author David Shafer on acknowledging grief. Visit Give InKind for information and concrete ways to help the bereaved.

flowers

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Tara Shafer

Consider what you want to convey in your gift of flowers. Here are some considerations in making a selection. Visit Give InKind for information, articles, and a new way to schedule food and support to those in times of need.

What Flowers Express: In Illness & In Grief

Consider what you wish to express in your selection. Visit Give InKind for ideas, information, and a new way to schedule meals in times of need.

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