A memorial service held at Mamre House in Orchard Hills during the month of October – globally recognised as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month – enabled families and individuals experiencing the heavy burden of grief to commemorate their loved ones by planting a tree and dedicating a stone in the new Remembrance Garden.
Hosted by the Diocese of Parramatta’s social welfare agency Catholic Care Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains (Catholic Care WSBM) in partnership with funeral service agency White Lady Funerals, the moving service showcased the care and support at the core of Catholic Care WSBM.
The Remembrance Garden was opened in March 2024 to support clients dealing with grief and loss to commemorate their loved ones.
Catholic Care WSBM Executive Director Helen Emmerson gave a welcome at the event, reflecting on the fact that while loss often goes unseen, the pain runs deep.
She said this pain is felt by women and families who have experienced the heartbreak of miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss.
The Memorial Service coincided with Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Image: supplied.
“Miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss carry a unique weight,” Helen said.
“They represent dreams unfulfilled and love that had no chance to fully bloom.”
“These are losses that can feel isolating.”
The pain of loss, grief and isolation is something Helen knows all too well.
“I stand here today as not just the Executive Director of Catholic Care but also as a woman who has also experienced multiple miscarriages myself,” she said.
“I share your pain and grief and I welcome the opportunity today for us to acknowledge and heal together.”
Thank you to everyone who attended, shared their experiences, and remembered those who will never be forgotten.
Attendees were invited to write the name of their loved on and tie it to a memorial tree as part of the service. Image: White Lady Funerals.
For future events like this or to access support, please follow Catholic Care WSBM on Facebook or visit the website.
Griefline supports anyone experiencing different types of grief. It offers resources and support, so you don’t feel alone. You can call Griefline on 1300 845 745, 8am to 8pm (AEST), 7 days a week.
Lifeline offers 24-hour crisis support. If you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
You can find more resources and support to manage grief on Health Direct, an Australian Government website.