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Ashley was amazing, she walked us through every drill using creatively chosen songs that helped us punch through our pain. With each hit, we felt seen; with each jab, we felt like we were understood despite of how deep and cumbersome our sorrow was.
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With every sweat fell tears, and as our heartbeat became more palpable in our chest, we found a new drive and purpose—to keep going, to keep fighting, and to keep raising awareness so that our little angel’s loss would not go in vain.
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We were reminded that we were not alone. We even got to make crafts to honor our sweet Frankie and got to take home a memento. We couldn’t be more thankful for this event, and already looking forward to the next one.
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We will always remember who we are punching for. An important part of our events is incorporating unique ways to remember our loved ones, like crafts that can be taken home as a momento.
Beyond coming together with others who understand, we have an amazing network of vendors who create opportunities for self-care and remembrance of your loved one.
Our workouts are led by Functional Movement & Boxing Fitness specialist Ashley Guarrasi. We play empowering workout music & some faith-based music. Before every class begins, we do a breathing exercise and a prayer circle.
Gloves for Grief was so much more than we expected it to be. It honestly felt more like a homecoming than an event to us because it was so welcoming, so raw and emotional, and so spiritually healing all at the same time.
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Sometimes, grief takes us in places where we feel powerless, overwhelmed and maybe even angry at times and this event provided such a beautiful—and more importantly—safe outlet for all of those emotions so we could release them all and recenter.
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It wasn’t about how strong you could punch, or how in shape you were—we just all came as we were, we cried if we needed to, and we did whatever felt right in our hearts. It also reinforced our purpose because after all, we are still living!
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We were reminded that we were not alone. We even got to make crafts to honor our sweet Frankie and got to take home a memento. We couldn’t be more thankful for this event, and already looking forward to the next one.
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Ashley Guarrasi is a Nike Trainer specializing in Functional Movement & Boxing Fitness. She's led fitness events around the country for both seasoned athletes and boxing newbies. Beyond providing expert guidance, we aim to create a safe and welcoming environment where you can come as you are and find your strength.
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frequently asked q's /
Just come as you are, really! Wear something comfortable that you're ready to sweat in. We start our events with a boxing workout and then offer refreshments and opportunities for connection or self-care following the workout. You'll find everything you need to know on the events page.
Okay, how do I prepare for an event?
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frequently asked q's /
Our events are for anyone that has lost a love one no matter the circumstances. While Gloves for Grief was initially formed from the loss of a child (and that cause will remain near and dear to our heart) we are here to help you find your strength and community through all forms of grief and loss.
What type of loss do these events support?
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frequently asked q's /
No! We welcome people of all genders, faiths, origins, and backgrounds.
Is this only for women?
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frequently asked q's /
Yes! Reach out to volunteers@glovesforgrief.org to ask about getting involved at an upcoming event or about other volunteer opportunities! We welcome you to join us in spreading hope, strength, and healing.
Are there any Gloves for Grief volunteer opportunities?
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frequently asked q's /