From Heartbreak to Healing: The Power of Presence in Grief

Last week, the Mountain Home, Arkansas, community suffered a heartbreaking loss with the passing of Alma, a talented and beloved young woman. A senior at Mountain Home High School, Alma was set to graduate with honors. She was known for her incredible artistic talent, her love of swimming and reading, and her dedication to her future. She had been gaining valuable experience through an internship at a local dental office.

Yet, sometimes, the struggles a person faces remain hidden from those around them. Sweet and talented Alma lost her life unexpectedly.

In response to this tragedy, the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry answered the call to support the students and staff of Mountain Home High School. As students returned from Spring Break, instead of sharing stories of their time away, they found themselves united in grief, shock, and confusion over Alma’s passing.

The request for the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs came from Lisa House, the school board president, who sought a source of solace for the grieving school community. Without hesitation, LCC K-9 Comfort Dog teams from four different states—Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Tennessee—traveled through severe storms to be there. Guided by faith, the handlers of Job (Christ the King - Memphis, Tennessee), Persis (King of Kings - Glenpool, Oklahoma), Thomas (St. Paul’s - Concordia, Missouri), and Michael (LCC Staff) Comfort Dogs all answered the call with a resounding, “Send me.”

“Comfort, comfort My people,” says your God. — Isaiah 40:1

Students, staff, and administrators welcomed the Comfort Dog teams with open arms and deep gratitude. Many students were astonished by how far these teams had traveled just to be with them. “Why?” they asked. The response was simple yet profound: “Because you needed a smile, and you are hurting.”

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To help students and staff process their grief, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion were provided, allowing them to write messages of love and remembrance. These heartfelt notes will be given to Alma’s family as a tribute to her life and the impact she had on those around her.

On Tuesday, the school community joined Alma’s family for her visitation and funeral. The Comfort Dogs were once again present, offering quiet companionship to those gathered in sorrow. Alma’s family and friends will deeply miss her warm smile, her laughter, and the rare and beautiful gift she was to this world.

A Prayer for Healing and Hope
Dear God, we ask You to protect the minds of those who are dealing with thoughts of depression and uncertainty. Help them to see the beautiful plan You have for their lives. Let them know their worth, their value, and the hope that You provide. Break the silence of shame and bring them the courage to share their burdens. Guard their hearts from despair, and surround them with love and support.

We pray for Alma’s family, friends, teachers, and community. May they find strength and comfort in You. In their moments of grief, let them feel seen, supported, and deeply loved. Hold them gently in Your arms, Lord, as they navigate this loss.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” — Psalm 139:14

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

DONATE - HEARTS OF MERCY & COMPASSION FUND

DONATE - LCC K-9 COMFORT DOG MINISTRY

DONATE - K-9 Comfort Dog Travel Expense Fund