Northumberland’s annual Walk To Remember took place on Sunday, October 14, 2018 beginning in Memorial Park in Port Hope.
It was the seventh annual walk and though it’s based on pregnancy and infant loss, organizer Kim Robinson said we welcome everyone who has lost a loved one.
October 15 is globally is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day, and October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month globally.
Robinson and her family lost their daughter Charlee after she was still born in April 2010.
There was nothing locally taking place where people could come together and remember children who were lost during child birth.
“There is nothing worse then the pain of losing a child.”
“For me it’s about healing. Helping me move forward and I hope it gives people a place to come to heal as well – to know they are not alone.”
“It seems taboo to talk about loss of any kind, child pregnancy, miscarriage etc.”
“I hope this gives people a place to come and know there is other people have gone through it.”
Pink, blue and white balloons were given out to people who signed names of children who were lost.
Approximately 200 people come out on the sunny afternoon, but Robinson said she spoke with a number of people leading up to the event who just couldn’t bring themselves to gather at the park.
“People don’t want to open that hurt back up, and that’s understandable. It’s wonderful to support each other, but even I have a hard time coming.”
After an emotional speech by Robinson the walk proceeded to the east beach where names were placed on the beach in honour of each child.
Colossal Dance team also performed a dance routine, then each name was read aloud a moment of silence and the eco-friendly balloons were released.
For video click http://nesphotos.zenfolio.com/p703947565/hba33ffbc#hba33ffbc
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
