Memorial Service Offered to Parents Grieving Baby Loss

A special service, designed to provide a tranquil opportunity for remembrance, has extended an invitation to parents who have experienced the loss of a child due to stillbirth or miscarriage. This annual event, named the Still Treasured, Always Remembered Service, is scheduled for 14:00 GMT on 7 January at St Thomas’ Church in Douglas. The program will feature music, poems, and readings focused on baby loss, creating an environment for attendees to commemorate their lost children. Dianne Rubery, Manx Care’s lead for Bereavement, commented that this service represents a significant chance for individuals who have endured the loss of a baby to access support. For the past nine years, midwives from Noble’s Hospital have been responsible for organizing this annual service, aiming to provide support to bereaved families. Ms. Rubery emphasized that it is “vital” for those affected to be “able to talk about the struggles they may be experiencing.” She further encouraged participation, stating, “I would encourage anyone who feels this would be helpful to them to come along.” In the preceding month, Manx Care launched bereavement certificates, intended for parents who have experienced the loss of a baby within the initial 24 weeks of pregnancy. Additionally, a starlight walk was conducted to increase public awareness regarding this new initiative.