This Edition’s Topic:This Edition’s Topic:

Faith, Hope and Love: Faith, Hope and Love:

Ways We Heal After LossWays We Heal After Loss

We hope this brings you comfort We hope this brings you comfort

and hope for the future.and hope for the future.

Sharing Magazine...Sharing Magazine...Sharing Magazine... touching touching liveslives……

healing healing heartshearts……

giving giving hopehope......

Volume 25, Issue 1Volume 25, Issue 1

January/February 2016January/February 2016

Dear Friends,

In our last issue of Sharing, we joined you in hope that the holidays would be a

gentle, healing time for you and your families, and that you might find occasions in

the last weeks of the year to be surrounded by love and comforted by remembrance.

These moments are those that can help in healing our hurting hearts, refueling our

spirits, and rekindling our hopes for the future.

As we move into the New Year, we recognize that it may be with mixed feelings that

we turn that calendar page. For some of us, reflections and memories from the

previous year may linger heavily on our hearts. For others, there may be great

anticipation of the fresh start a new year brings, and hope for things to come. Time

moves forward and we do too, sometimes in very small steps, bringing with us our

memories of the past, as well as perhaps tentative seeds of hope for the future.

It is with that understanding that we bring you a very special issue of Sharing, one

which visits the very concepts, ideals, and values we hold dearest every day of our

lives: those of faith, hope, and love. These are the very things that are impossible to

hold in hand, but are so much the foundation of our everyday lives. We often use

beautiful, embellishing words to describe these things that are in essence, somewhat

indescribable, but are at the core of nurturing our human spirit.

They are also things we talk about a lot, and perhaps struggle to redefine, after a

loss. Many of us have asked repeatedly, What happens to our faith? Where do we

begin to hope again, or discover hope in our hearts? And what do we do with the

love we have, that unfolds, that continues to grow? How do we re-engage in these

necessary aspects of our spirit, our humanity, our lives?

After a loss, many of us are faced with re-evaluating all aspects of our faith: faith in

life, faith in goodness, faith in God or a higher being, faith in ourselves, faith in the

future. Often, we find ourselves in a position of vulnerability as we take steps to trust

again, or more deeply trust in that which is beyond our understanding. For each of

us, examining our faith is an integral part of our grief journey. The steps we take

are very personal and uniquely ours.

To love, and be loved, may be the deepest desires of the human soul. Grief can

disrupt our usual expressions of love and ways of loving, and can confuse the

compass of our hearts—at times rendering our hearts hardened, at times seemingly

insatiable. Our hope is that each of your hearts will be opened in new and beautiful

ways to give and receive love abundantly.

Hope is perhaps the gift that faith and love help to bring to our lives. For all of us,

we strive for hope to grow in our hearts again, though it is sometimes hard to

imagine or see. As we allow those things that soothe, comfort and mend us to shape

our hearts, we step a bit closer to desiring a future again, believing in the possibility

there is one to be found that may be filled with joy again, someday. That is hope.

From the National Office, we offer a tender embrace of faith, hope and love for you

as we step beside you into this New Year.

Blessings,

Behind the Scenes...

Rose Carlson

Program Director

Jennifer Stachula

Chapter Coordinator

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Debbie Cochran, RN

Executive Director

Miranda Coker

Support Group

Facilitator

Patti Budnik

Bereavement Care

Manager

Jaclyn Nikodym

Development & PR

Associate

Sarah Lawrenz

Development

Director

Debbie Cochran, RN

Vicki Kiefer

Accounting Manager

In Every Issue...

Dear Friends……………………….…2

In Memory Of…….….….….….….….6

Features...

4………….Honoring Chase

4………….Before I Lost Simeon 5………….Sharing & Caring Spring Training 5……..…...International Perinatal Bereavement Conference 8……..…..I Remember

9……..…..Love Lives On

9……..…..Book Review: Three Minus One

10………Self-ish

11……....The Glory of You

12……….Finding Hope

13……….Finding Hope (cont.) 14……….Random Act of Kindness 14……….Vinny, My Glory Baby 15……….Vinny, My Glory Baby (cont.) 18….…..UnEven

18….…..UnEven (cont.) 19………..Trivia Night & Spanish Share Group Launching 20.……..Angel Ball - Save the Date

Contents

Sharing is the official newsletter of Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc. © 1997

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Honoring Chase By: Carol Elmendorf

It's hard to believe it is Christmas and you are not here

We were so excited about your parent's announcement last year!

A boy as our first grandchild on each side....

Our excitement was so evident and unable to hide.

A crib was set up and your room was decorated to a tee

People showered Mom and Dad with gifts as far as the eye could

see.

You decided to arrive early as Momma got sick

but that was okay, there is nothing doctor's can't fix.

Oh how wrong we found we would be with each passing day,

as news of surgeries, cancer and chemo came our way.

We cried, begged and prayed to God for a cure,

He would answer our prayers, we thought that was a for sure!!

How hard it must have been Sweet Baby Chase to fight such

pain

You hung in there for twenty days until the time came.

Now you live in eternal peace with Jesus above

and are surrounded by people we have lost and love!!

We will continue to tell your amazing super hero story

until we meet you again some day in God's everlasting glory.

It's hard to believe it is Christmas and you are not here

but we will go on because we hold your memory so dear!!!

~ In memory of Chase Ryan Elmendorf

Before I lost Simeon, I was a super free spirit! I went with the wind and brought my friends with me. I was the life of the party. After losing him at nine months in February, 2011, just a week before my due date, I changed.

I became an impulsive over-thinker who sometimes had more negative thoughts than positive words. So when I became anxious or overwhelmed, I just shut down. It took a while to become someone who actually was the person on the inside that she played so well on the outside.

I started a non-profit for families who go through what I went

through and for struggling youth. I wondered, “How could I teach them to live positive lives if I couldn't balance my own energy?”

One day I said out loud in a loss group, “When my son was in my

belly he heard me be free and laugh and live! So if he is looking down on me now, he is probably confused. I am not being the mother he once knew.” So I made a

conscious decision to live like Simeon was watching. Since then, my non-profit has really grown and my smiles are genuine from the inside and out!

I made this video for anyone that feels alone and like they will never smile again. My journey: https://youtu.be/WCLHp2Fcn_g

For more information on Stephanie’s organization, Propa City Community

Outreach, please visit http://www.propacityco.org/home.html

Before I Lost Simeon By: Stephanie Crawford

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Sharing & Caring Perinatal Bereavement Training

The National Share Office is proud to announce the details of our first bereavement skills workshop of 2016: Sharing & Caring will be held on March 8, 9 & 10, 2016 in St. Peters, Missouri.

This 2.5 day training is an exceptional opportunity for those interested in gaining skills needed to work with families who have experienced the heartbreaking death of a baby. This specialized education explores pertinent topics such as the unique nature of perinatal grief, the rights of parents when a baby dies, how to provide aftercare support, and how to establish a system of perinatal bereavement care in a hospital or facility setting.

All attendees will gain insight, skills, confidence, support and ideas on how to better serve bereaved families within their communities. Professionals who attend will be awarded 17.75 contact hours through the Missouri Nurses Association and the National Association of Social Workers.

Cost:$500; 2 or more registrants: $400 each Fees include all workshop materials, snacks, beverages, and lunch on Wednesday and Thursday.

Location: Spencer Road Community Commons, 427 Spencer Road, St. Peters, MO 63376

For more information, please visit http://nationalshare.org/act/attend-training/sharing-caring/

Stay tuned for additional training opportunities and dates of upcoming events for professionals in our local community. Visit our website for continued updated information!

2016 International Perinatal Bereavement Conference

Mark your calendars for this exceptional perinatal bereavement conference in sunny Phoenix, Arizona!

On September 28-October 1, 2016, join hundreds of fellow professionals striving to improve perinatal bereavement care across the world. Network with international leaders and learn from incredible speakers ways we can enrich the care provided families after losing

their baby.

For more information, please visit the conference website at www.perinatalbereavementconference.org.

For updates, follow on Twitter @PLIDAnetworking, or check it out on Facebook. Registration will be open soon!

Thank You for Your Gifts!

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In Memory of… My two rainbow babies I know what it's like for women who have experienced this type of pain. The pain doesn't ever go, it's always present in the back of your mind and all you can do is push forward knowing that if its in the Lords plan he will bless you with a child. All my love and strength from one woman to another. By: Carmen Acosta In memory of my 4 Angel Babies Thank you for allowing me to do this Jamberry fundraiser! Share means a lot to me. Love, Toni By: Toni Austin Owen Michael Backer By: Debbie Ball Hannah Marie Bailey By: Lauren Hess-Metz Nathaniel Bemke By: Geri Grisham Greta Claire Black By: Charles Black Corynn Boresi By: Joy Boresi Griffin Brase Nana & Poppy's Lil' Buddy By: Merlene Jeffries Joshua Bruenning Love, Carol & Steve Jasper By: Steve & Carol Jasper Isaac Sewell Burling "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too." 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 By: Heather and Joe Lataille Samuel Garrison Byers By: Meredith Byers Philomena Rose Carmean In memory of Mena Rose, always in our hearts. By: Nancy Fontana

Joseph William Carter Happy Birthday to our Blessing. By: Deborah Carter Alexander Castillo By: Susan Woodard Garrett Coleman By: Bridget Reeves Cronan Babies By: Becky Cronan Eliza Taylor Duckworth We will always miss Eliza but are so happy to have her sisters here. By: Peggy Baker Chase Ryan Elmendorf By: Lynne Wuelling In memory of Chase Ryan Elmendorf By: Jeremy Elmendorf The Fisco Babies In memory of Fisco babies: Niko, Ferrari, Anela, Aolani, Hope & sibling babies By: Donna Fisco Baby Fogarty By: Jessica Fogarty Chase Foster By: Barbara Smith The Ganousis Angels By: Megan Lodderhose Xamayta Graver We stand with you in your grief and pray for your peace. Love, All the Praying Sisters By: Catherine Passmore Claire Conroy Guckes By: Sarah Guckes You are in our memory and our hearts every day. By: Pamela Wilkerson Fiona Hafner By: Justin Lammert In loving memory of Fiona Hafner Andrew Hampes By: Anita Hampes Mason Harris By: Lisa Hannon

Isabella Jean Heimann Nunes By: Wendy Heimann Caroline Henry By: Mary Vancil Bianca Josephine Hoelmer By: JoAnn Vetter Kiera Elizabeth Keady Love you, baby girl! By: Laura Keady Audrey Hope Keinrath We hold you in our hearts. Missing and loving you always. Dad, mom and your sisters By: Tracy Keinrath Emily Kelley You loved her so... you love her always. In loving memory of your sweet Emily. By: Casie & Brent Rentel Maureen Elizabeth Kelly By: Marjorie Kelly The Kiefer Babies By: Joyce Budt Emmett Robert Kraus By: Amber Kraus The Liddy Baby By: Carol Buck Joseph M. Margherio By: Mike Margherio Baby Metcalf To Joe and Elaine, A donation in honor of Baby Metcalf. "Your small life left a love that will go on forever." By: Danny and Ashley Elchert The Mills Babies By: Christine Mills Penelope Rose Mueller By: Susan Popovich Michael & Christian Mutchler By: Rachel Jaar Samantha Nash Kelly & Elliot, I'm sorry I couldn't make the walk (again) this year, but please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and Samantha always ♡ By: Sheri Butts

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Thank You for Your Gifts! Colton C. Natsch By: Joan Natsch Love Forever, Pops and Grammy Denzel Nelson By: Patricia Rich Denzel Nelson and Max Williamson By: Dorothy Mehegan Marley Caroline Neville Thinking of you and Marley as her birthday approaches. She is loved and missed and thought of often. Love from The Keenes By: Candice Keene By: Cristina Neville Rombough In memory of my sweet goddaughter Marley! By: Alisa Osborne Jacob Samuel Peacock and Josie Lafata By: Erin Sind Samuel Jacob Peacock Praying for the Peacock family in their time of grief and loss. By: Elizabeth Davie We are so sorry for your loss. Your family will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Keith & Donna By: Donna Long Memorial By: Normand & Melinda Gaboury By: Paul Peacock By: Sharon Simpson By: Colleen Wolf Ryan Plattus By: Hilary Plattus Angelique & Michael Price, Jr. By: Erika Becker Price Amy Noel Rathsam By: Glee Ann Huddlestun Joshua Mirkay Redington By: Nicholas Mirkay By: Melissa Redington We will always keep Joshua in our thoughts. By: Michelle Schuamcher Cameron Roberdeau By: Chris Roberdeau

Oliver David Roberts To my first nephew, Oliver. You will always be in our hearts. By: Kate Jones Charley Rowekamp By: Stacey Hohn By: Kathy Rowekamp By: Megan Rowekamp Jordyn Tyse-Dallas Sander Merry Christmas in Heaven, Sissy! We love you! Love, Joslyn & Tysen By: Kelly Sander Gregory Barrett Sill Happy 4th Birthday Gregory! Mommy, Daddy, Victoria, Gabriel, & Lucas love you very much! Sending kisses to heaven! By: Emily Sill Alyssa Kay Smith By: Amy Smith Alexander Boone Snyder By: Debbie Hasko Frankie Stockmann By: Anne Phelps Finn Edward Thilenius By: Tammy and Brian L. Olson/Thilenius Happy Birthday to Finn! Love & hugs! By: Gretchen Goodall Marek, Kellen, Easton, Barrett, and David Varady By: Danielle Varady Luca and Elisa Vega In memory of Luca Adriana Vega 8.10.13 and Elisa Josephine Vega 1.20.15 By: Maria & Mark Vega Adam N. Wasif By: Aamna Jalal Hunter Charles Webb By: Jacqueline Behnen By: Rachael Bradley To support the fundraising efforts of Betsy Webb - I am happy to contribute to this important cause. By: Tammy Burton By: Tara Green By: Michael Greenstein By: Margot Hintlian

By: Tara Perman By: Kimberly Uxa In memory of Hunter Charles, we will remember you always! By: Byron Walsh By: Christine Watson In honor of our son, Hunter Charles Webb By: Betsy Webb Memorial Abigail Renee Welch By: Teresa and Sean Welch Kaiden Scott and Kennedy Grace Wengler from Aunt Carol, Charlene and Grandma Florence By: Carol Drummond Son of Kristy and Alex White Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Holly & Jon Thompson By: Holly Thompson Elijah Ray Willings I'm donating in memory of my grandson. He gave us 22 hours and 22 minutes of the purest love I've ever seen. Our hearts are forever broken. By: Lori Taber Nicholas Robert Ybarra By: Amy Ybarra Andrew Zappacosta By: Rebecca Lando All the little ones By: Lee Rigg Joshua By: Jan Jerden Robert By: Carolyn Hays

In Honor of… Alyssa Dolge Thinking of you this week as the date approaches. Sending our love and prayers. By: Jessica Rowden The Hans Family By: Julie Thomas

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Cathi Lammert This gift to Share is in honor of the years of devoted service Cathi Lammert gave to Share's staff, boards, and bereaved families, as well as to her colleagues in other pregnancy loss support programs across the nation and around the world. By: Perry Lynn Moffitt My Share girls <3 you all...keep up the good work By: Megan Nichols

Friends of Share… Adam Abdelhadi

Cynthia Aranda

Nancy Armstrong

Amanda Borgmann

Teresa Brassfield

Deborah Bush

John Capellupo

Cynthia Cattoi

Beatriz Cervantes

Lions Club

Debbie Cochran

Madison Cooper

Kyle Dent

Barb Donahue

Tom and Marlene Evans

Missy Ewald

Peter Finnerty

Barbara Fresenburg

Douglas A Gansler

Wendy E. Garcia-Mercado

Cynthia Gelsthorpe

Carole Georgen

Lisa Hamilton

Jean Hannes

Thomas Henk

Melissa Hunte

Sarah Johnson

Aura Joyce

Frank Klass

Jane Krug

William Kutteh

Erica Lambert

Catherine Lammert

Angela Laurence

Ann Lehmann

Steven Light

Erin Maurer

Angela Meyers

Elizabeth Mirabile

Karen Mumm

Kimberly Nicholson

Enda O'Donovan

Kevin and Lisa O'Hern

Tammy and Brian L. Olson/Thilenius

Susan Petzel

Jenny Ramsey

David J. Reinhart

Pamela Smith

Stephanie Smith

Nicole Stroud

Valerie Sturm

Leah Waldrum Constance Woods

Thank You for Your Gifts!

I wrote this to my daughter on August 2nd, 2007. One week before the journey which changed 'me' forever began: “To my Precious Baby, I have named you Bridget. Did you know that Bridget means resolute strength…you have been a pleasant little fighter since conception. We are so grateful and admire your strength already! Baby Bridget, I really need you to help Mommy. I know there is something wrong with me. You need to keep growing and stay inside of me until the doctors say it’s safe for you to be born. Can you do that for Mommy?" Bridget did wait until the doctors said it was ok, and by that time, we were both very sick. Not a day passes that I do not think of her. I speak of her each and every day. Her little life changed me forever… and I must admit… I am a better person now because of her. Many of you are very new to your loss, but please know you are not alone. I remember how surreal and heartbreaking the first year was. I screamed, wailed, and sometimes would whisper “WHY?” I felt helpless, angry, defeated, and alone. At times self-doubt and guilt kept me buried deep in the grief. Also, I often played the “What if” game in my brain. "What if I didn't jog that week?" “What if I went to another OB that so-and-so had recommended?" It was a game that did not bring me answers.

The “Why's” and “What if's” are definitely expected in grief, but I did not find peace until I let go of the questions that really there were no answers to. They didn't bring Bridget home to me or alive in my arms. It was when I turned it over to God, the universe, what have you, that I could breathe again. It takes so much courage to find hope in such heartbreak. But you will. I knew I would be ok deep inside when I started looking for signs that she was with me. The doe across the cemetery at her memorial service. A shooting star, a butterfly that brushes your shoulder or a rainbow that fills the sky after a storm. These signs show you that you are healing. They bring you hope and renew your heart. I guess what I want to say is that the pain WILL lessen and you will find peace within your journey. And yes, you will definitely change. Friends and hobbies you had before your loss may be out of your life and replaced with new friends, hobbies, and interests. You will not be the person you were before your baby passed away. But know that this loss will TEACH you. One day down the road you will offer comfort to someone new in their loss, feel empathy for those struggling with their own journey, and smile through the pain. Soon you will look for HOPE during the dark times and when a butterfly lands in the grass by your feet. You will be a stronger/better “new” you.

I Remember By: Laura Winik

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Edited by Sean Hanish and Brooke Warner, reviewed by Jenn Stachula, Share Group Coordinator

Inspired by the film RETURN TO ZERO—the first Hollywood film to tackle the taboo subject of stillbirth—Three Minus One is a poignant, inspiring anthology that offers much-needed insight into the unique, shattering, and life-changing experience of losing a child. It is a collection of intimate stories, poems, art, and photographs by parents who shared in the heartbreaking and often lonely experience of the death of their baby. Raw, honest, and soul-wrenching, this book is intended to open the hearts of friends and family to the reality of the experience of loss, and also to acknowledge to other parents that they are not alone in their heartache. It is ultimately hopeful for parents seeking understanding, comfort and healing.

As I read this collection, I found myself feeling so grateful to even hold this book in my hands; I was grateful for the editors for taking a chance and inviting parents to share their most shattered moments of loss and to also share their most flickering hope for healing; I was grateful that those who contributed their stories or art did so with honesty and truth, knowing that another parent would pick up this book longing for understanding and a shred of hope for healing on their own heartbreaking journey. And now, after having read this book, I am so grateful to have a resource to share with you, our parents, as your own story unfolds. Interested in reading, or sharing this book? Share offers Three Minus One in our online store: https://www.z2systems.com/np/clients/share/product.jsp?product=155&

One of my favorite sayings regarding grief is, “Love Lives On.” It is descriptive, honest, simple, and true, especially for the parent who has lost an infant. The love a parent has for their child is deep, rooted in their soul, in their every fiber of their being, and like no other love they have ever known before. A love that simply cannot be taken away, even by death. It is a love that will live on forever, regardless of the number of days that pass, the new events that will occur in a parent’s life, or the general busyness of day-to-day activities ~ a love that they will always cherish. “Love Lives On,” applies to all parents, regardless of their faith, religion, church, practices, or upbringing. Grieving parents of various faiths, or no faith at all, can be together and share the thing they all have in common, and that is, love. The love they each had for their child. The love they can describe with words and with tears. Faith, religion, and church is part of many parent’s support after the loss of their child. It brings some closer to their religion, and allows them to learn more about their

faith. It is a saving grace for some and avoided by others. Whatever faith or belief a parent who has lost a child practices, it is their love for their child that will live on. That love will guide them in their decisions, support them through good and bad times, and will never leave them. It is a continuous love that knows no end. Healing through the pain of loss is different for each parent; it is dependent on their age, gender, faith, past experiences, health, and is individual as their fingerprint. Just as no two individuals grieve the same, no two individuals heal the same. The healing process can be a long journey with many twists and turns. Parents often find ways to support their journey through activities, and sometimes that is physical exercise; they start jogging, going to the gym, yoga etc. Though the activities may start out as an escape from the pain of loss, they eventually assist with their healing process and provide a long- term positive effect. Crafts, such as painting, knitting, and drawing have also been known to support parents during their time of grief. Those tasks often provide a quiet

and productive time for the parents when their lives seem out of their control. Attending support groups is very beneficial for parents, and many find it encouraging to witness others who have experienced similar loss and see their ability to laugh or smile again. I encourage parents to journal, nothing fancy, or poetic, just jotted down notes of their feelings and thoughts. I remind them to date their entries so they can go back and read their journal and realize just how far they have come in their journey. As professionals, family members, friends, or whatever role you play in a grieving parent’s life, remember the holidays, seasons, and special days are stimuli for increased emotions for the parent. It is a time we should support them by listening as they share their happy and sad memories, laugh and cry with them, say their child’s name, and be present as they experience life without their child.

Mostly it is our task to respect them as they learn, “Love Lives On.”

Love Lives On By: Dawn Casey, Family Support Coordinator, SIDS Resources, Saint Louis, MO

Book Review: Three Minus One: Stories of Parents’ Love and Loss

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Your baby has died. You have lost all of your heart. Your will. Your breath. Your care. Your self. The grief takes over and your soul succumbs to the heartbreak that has become a daily reality.

You care less about yourself, and you feel selfless, literally without self. Your baby has died. And with her, or in my case him, the old you has come to pass.

But the fact is that pieces of You remain; they are broken, sharp, rigid pieces, but pieces of you remain.

You remain. And maintain. Most days.

Then one day, something deep down inside your heart

wishes to thrive once again.

For your child. For YOURSELF.

Where do you start? For this grieving mama, I looked within my broken heart to find a way to love & start living life again, beginning with my passions. What are your passions? What did you enjoy doing before your enjoyment passed away? Focus on three passions. If three seems like too many, pick one. Focus on that passion, and pour the remaining pieces of your heart and soul into that passion.

Live your passion. Selfishly.

When I decided to “Turn my Pain into Passion”, I chose to focus on my love for photography, helping people, and family/team building. These personal loves were the catalysts for the creation of Scared Sidless, a non-profit organization that gives love, support, and resources to other

families who have endured the death of a child.

Scared Sidless provides a “Retreat from Grief” camp called Camp Cullin in July of each year. This year, for our third annual camp, we had two families drive four hours to attend, and one family even drove from Chicago to Texas to be a part of our healing experience. 42 children and 35 adults were able to attend for free due to generous donations, sponsors, and fund raising events throughout the year! This year, we were blessed to have a Camp Cullin Counselor. Penny Haight, with Penny Haight Counseling, held one session for the parents and grandparents of loss and one session for the grieving siblings.

During the sessions, we illustrated our grief through art, creating symbols to explain the deep valleys of grief, the thunderous triggers that occur, steep mountain ranges of determination, and the rainbows in our lives representing hope.

Hope for healing. Hope for a return of self.

Hope for the future. Hope for our grieving hearts.

The theme at camp this year was “Finding the Everyday Rainbows in your life.” You can do this too, as an individual, family, couple, or with your child or children.

Gather your materials: big pieces of paper, markers, crayons, pencils, courage and a truth. Take a few minutes to reflect on the patterns of grief in your life. Then, imagine those patterns of grief to be forces and landforms of nature. Rivers, oceans, mountains, plateaus, thunderstorms, rainbows, valleys, hurricanes, tornadoes, hills,

etc. Starting on the left side of the page, begin illustrating your journey of grief thus far. Draw your grief, color your grief, and share your grief journey with at least one person.

Your baby has died. You have lost all of your heart. Your will. Your

breath. Your care. Your self.

You will find your heart, will, breath, care, and self again.

You may not recognize this weathered, new self,

but you have the power to reshape, recreate, and renew

that which has been worn down.

You can become self-ish again.

For your child.

For yourself.

Self-ish By: Ginny Limer

This young girl is showing her grief work. To me, the shadow makes her look

like a "strong girl", which she truly is.

Ginny Limer’s personal journey of grief represented as art.

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Justine Froelker, LPC, and author of Ever Upward, wrote and read the following poem on December 6th at the Angel of Hope in St. Charles, MO.

The Glory of You

The darkness left behind by the loss of you can feel as if the breath, the very essence of who we once were and who we wanted to be, has been taken from us.

Some days the darkness so heavy it can be difficult to put one foot in front of the other, let alone breathe.

Some days the dawn strikes and our love for you fills us with wonder so powerful it propels us forward in the day of the living.

The wonder of how your giggles would have filled our souls with joy, instead allowing our hearts to hear for us in the silence that can stifle us. The silence of your life gone too soon scarring our souls, trusting we always know and see you as our hearts will forever speak you. Missing the warmth of your skin in our arms and yet, we feel you holy every day and always. Never to know the tangible completeness always wondering who you might have been and who we could have been. And yet, trusting and knowing we are whole, even in our endless longing. We will spend the rest of our lives moving through the grief with whatever grace we can muster in that day.

Choosing to give ourselves graceful permission to embrace the paradox that is defining our happy ending within the arms of lifelong loss.

Within these arms of permission and unwavering hope we can find our truth. Our truth to live our lives in pure honor of you. Because through this honor we fight, fight to take back the pieces of ourselves that grief has tried to plunder from our souls.

Taking back the pieces of you in us battling to weave them into the fabric of what we must carry with us always. The battle of who we once were and who we are now as we parent you from afar. Parenting with scarred souls the scars which were once shattered hearts through which we are forever changed. Forever changed and yet choosing to be always healing. Healing within the complicated gray of our eternal love for you and the darkness of grief.

In the tension of sorrow and love, walking into

this complicated gray awakening to life in color we breathe glory into our lives.

The glory of our love for you.

The glory of you.

The Glory of You By: Justine Froelker, LPC

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One definition of hope is the “feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” It can also be described as the expectation that things will change. When your beloved baby has died, your heart’s desire—to have your little one with you—is no longer a possibility, which can leave you feeling uncertain about your future. Parents who experience a miscarriage, stillbirth, or death of a new baby often struggle with a feeling of hopelessness not only in the early days and weeks, but also for years to come. They frequently feel stuck in a place of sadness and anguish, believing their life no longer has meaning. In other words, they may have lost all hope for the future, convinced there is nothing at all that will ever relieve their aching arms, heart, and soul. The common emotions, worries, and fears of grief often intensify these hopeless feelings.

Ronna Jevne and James Miller, in their book “Finding Hope: Ways to See Life in a Brighter Light,” write that when we have hope, we look forward to the future; we know we will be able to go on and expect that the future will be better. Since feeling completely at a loss as to how to move forward when someone so precious is missing from your life is a very common feeling, grieving parents often feel adrift, as if the future will never be better. And, as many of you reading this have likely discovered, finding hope does not always come naturally. Being hopeful after your baby has died can seem downright unnatural. Jevne and Miller acknowledge that healing and finding ways to be hopeful again can be a lot of hard work—a slow and painful process.

You may struggle greatly to find hope.

So how do you move from a place of hopelessness and despair to a place of hope again?

That is not an easy question to answer because just as everyone’s grief is different, so are everyone’s dreams and life situations. In other words, finding hope again means different things for everyone. And, unfortunately, it is not something anyone else can tell you how to do.

When I asked bereaved parents who have lived through the death of their baby and eventually found a way to restore their hope in life again what they thought helped

them, the answers they gave were as varied as their baby’s stories. As always, I was humbled to be given glimpses into their lives and hearts.

Several parents expressed how they found the most promise of hope for the future in their faith. In some cases, that is the only thing that did indeed provide them that hope. As one mom, Tara, explained, “My faith has been important to me for all of my life, even when I was a little girl. I know that some parents who lose their baby blame and hate God, but I couldn’t do that. I turned to God to offer comfort and hope to me. I turned to Him for reassurance that someday, I would be reunited with my son. I couldn’t have gone

on if I hadn’t. If I had let my faith waver, I would have been broken in a way I could never have recovered from.”

Other parents shared stories about how they regained a sense of hope in their lives when they were able to find ways to make meaning from their baby’s life. Again, that can take many different forms: doing things for others in the baby’s honor and memory, sharing their baby’s story as a way to bring awareness to various issues, starting a not-for-profit organization or volunteering for one, even making career choices to honor the baby’s life. One such mom is Sarah; in honor of her son Will, she decided to become a

nurse. “Nurses have been a huge part of the last 10 years for me. Trying to recover from a terrible battle with a burst appendix that led to my infertility, to getting pregnant, to losing my son Will. The nurses were the ones who insisted that we spend as much time as we needed with him.

The nurses were the ones that were there in the middle of the night when the shock wore off. They were there for my family in the waiting room, and they were there for me after I went home. The marriage of science, technical ability and compassion is hard to come by, and that’s a factor to the shortage. It takes an insane amount of skill.” Another mom has devoted herself to speaking about car seat safety after her daughter died because of an improperly installed seat. Sari, whose twin boys died in 2013, shared that she “found hope and meaning in my life after my sons Carter and Easton died by serving on the board for Harlynn’s Heart, a nonprofit for pregnancy and infant

Finding Hope By: Rose Carlson, Share’s Program Director

Page 13 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

Finding Hope (continued) loss. I also make greeting cards (for all occasions) because if I can make someone smile or let someone know I am thinking about them, then I have done my job and made my boys proud!”

Doing things to make their children proud is a common theme when it comes to finding hope and healing. In fact, quite frequently, one of the first things grieving parents long for once the initial shock of their baby’s death has passed is to do something, anything, for others that will help heal their broken hearts and give their baby’s too-short life meaning and purpose. This desire is what often motivates parents to make darling little hats, blankets, memory boxes and other items to donate to hospitals. It is as if bereaved parents instinctively know that putting the abundance of love they have for their beloved baby to “work” will not only give their hands and minds something to do but also help soothe their spirits. Mandy summed this up perfectly, “Crocheting tiny little hats and blankets gives my hands something to do and gives me a way for my son’s life to have a positive impact on the world. He was much too small for a regular baby blanket and hat, and I will be forever grateful to the mom who made the beautiful blanket I was given to wrap him in. I treasure it, and I hope that another grieving mom treasures the pieces I make just as much,” she explained.

Several parents mentioned that becoming pregnant and having another baby is what finally gave them some hope. Lyndsey, a bereaved mom who had three miscarriages before giving birth to her son Benjamin last winter, wrote, “Each time I became pregnant, I was hopeful because I had suffered years of unsuccessful treatments for endometriosis. There was a time when I wasn’t sure I would even be able to get pregnant, so just knowing that I could was enough to offer

some light to my days. Each time I miscarried, even though my hopes were dashed, I told myself that one day, my dream would come true. I just knew that it would.” Another mom, Christina, told me how getting pregnant again brought hope to her entire family. “I will always miss my little guy; we all will,” she said, “but it helped me tremendously to once again have the anticipation of the laughter of a child in our home.”

Many times, those who are grieving are hesitant to seek professional help, but a professional counselor, especially a grief therapist, can be invaluable. “My counselor helped me to see that even though my life may always be tinged with a hint of sadness, that didn’t mean I couldn’t still have a life. And not just a life, but a good and happy one. So for me, realizing that being happy again didn’t mean I would stop loving and missing my Summerlin, and I didn’t have to stop missing her, gave me such hope,” was a sentiment shared by Tess, whose daughter was born still at close to full term.

There are so many other things one can do to foster a sense of hope, and sometimes, those things seem small and perhaps insignificant. But, small steps are important, so take pride in whatever you discover that brings you comfort and hope. Following are some additional suggestions and ideas for ways you can actively seek out hope:

* Plan activities and events to look forward to. Whether it is a vacation, plans for a garden, or lunch with a friend, having something to look forward to can make you feel happy and hopeful.

* Think of specific things you enjoy that make you feel hopeful and find a way to incorporate those things into your life. Do you enjoy poetry? If so, print poems that make you feel good and remind you of your baby, or just

inspire you. Keep them with you, and share them with others. If you like to write, start a journal or blog.

* Try not to shut people out, because feeling lonely can contribute to feelings of hopelessness. While it may seem easier right now to hibernate and keep to yourself, surrounding yourself with people who love you can be an important part of your grieving and healing. Let those who love you LOVE you.

* Pay attention to little things that might bring a smile to your heart.

* Find a creative outlet.

* Keep reminders of your baby with you, and share his or her story with others.

* Make a playlist of songs—songs that remind you of your baby or pregnancy, are inspirational, or that you love, for whatever reason.

* Collect quotes that you find inspiring.

* Be open to unexpected people and experiences.

As you read much of what I have written here, you may be thinking that doing any of these things, especially feeling hopeful again, is out of your reach. And it may be right now. And that is okay; give yourself permission to freely grieve in whatever ways you need to. It will likely take some time for you to feel hopeful again. Sometimes, it is simply a matter of one day realizing you want to feel hopeful again, and when that happens, you may still have to make a conscious effort to find ways to bring hope and joy back into your life. It is my hope that a few of the ideas I have shared here have inspired you and that you will find some touching ways to bring meaning not only to your beloved baby’s life, but to your own life as well.

Page 14 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

In February 2007, I became pregnant, and it was a very much wanted and planned for pregnancy. My husband and I were so excited.

Ultrasounds were one of my favorite experiences. I got to see the little life that was living right inside my belly. This baby was a very active baby; he was always in motion. I could see and feel the little arms and legs moving around and listen to the heartbeat.

When the ultrasound lady asked if we wanted to know the sex we both yelled, "YES"! She then said the magic words, "It's a...boy"! I had tears in my eyes, and my husband had the biggest grin on his face. I have never had any brothers, so the thought of a son was an amazing feeling. Plus, he would be the first grandson on my side of the family!

We started planning right away. Within a few months of finding out I was pregnant, we already had the nursery finished and furnished and a closet full of clothes. I even had a little black leather biker jacket for him.

I could not wait to meet our son. We decided to name him Vincent Von Engel and call him “Vinny”. I used to daydream and wonder if he would look like me or his father.

I had another ultrasound and got to hear the heartbeat several times. It was always so exciting! During my second ultrasound, he really started showing his personality. He was quite a character. I asked if I could get a picture showing that he was a boy. Every time the ultrasound lady would go to click to take a picture showing he was a boy, he would cover himself with his hands. It's like he knew we were watching.

I had a doctor’s appointment on Monday, August 20, but she called me to reschedule because she had a delivery during my appointment time. We rescheduled for a few days later.

I went to the doctor that Wednesday, August 22, after work. I got really excited when she said that she was going to listen for the heartbeat. She tried really hard for

several minutes, and when she couldn’t find it, she asked me if I would go to the hospital for an ultrasound, just to make sure that everything was okay. I said sure. I would get to see him again! I loved getting ultrasounds and seeing him play around inside my belly. Plus, I would have some new pictures for his scrapbook.

My husband Doug had been to every single appointment except for this one. Something inside me told me to call him and ask him to take me. He picked me up and took me to the hospital. On the way there, he assured me that it was just a glitch in the machine. I figured something like that had happened too.

When I got to the hospital, instead of taking me to the imaging center where they normally do the ultrasounds, they made me go to labor and delivery.

They took me to a room and told me to get into a hospital gown. I started crying because I knew something was wrong. I kept

The first Christmas after our twin sons passed away was so hard. They had only been gone a few months. We sent letters out to family and asked them to complete one random act of kindness in the name of our children and then send that information to us. I saved every letter we got. Some donated to a charity in the boys’ names, some bought gifts for the poor, some paid for another's turnpike toll in honor of our sons. This was so much sweeter than 100 angel statues for us.

The hardest was my own mother who didn't want to participate. Later she told me that she did do something, but she didn't want to tell me about it because she felt it was bragging about her good deed.

She didn't get it. Her good deed wasn't supposed to be for her, or even our sons, it was for us. For me! To know my pain was brining goodness to the world somehow. To make the pain bearable for a few more days.

These days we don't ask people to do anything in their name, but some friends still do. My husband and I both do something special each Christmas in honor of our sons. And it's the one thing we don't argue about. If he wants to donate $100 to a charity, in honor of our boys, even if money is tight, it will bring a smile to my face.

Michael and Scott May 6, 2007

Random Act of Kindness: Michael & Scott By: Kelly & Traci LeTourneau

Vinny, My Glory Baby By: Jennifer Engel

Page 15 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

Vinny, My Glory Baby (Continued)

asking the nurses what was happening and they just put their heads down. Finally a doctor came in. He said that he was going to do an ultrasound and that my son could be dead.

They started to do the ultrasound and that is when I looked at the little black and white screen and saw it. A lifeless limp little body floating around inside my own belly. No waving hands or arms. No hands covering himself. No heartbeat!

I squeezed my husband’s hand as hard as I could. Then I heard the words, "Sorry, your baby is dead." My husband and I held each other and cried for a long time. Then they started hooking me up to machines to induce labor, and we started calling the family to tell them what had happened.

About 24 hours later, Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 7:09pm, Vinny was born. He looked exactly like Doug—he had Doug's eyes, hands and arms. He had little sideburns.

He was perfect. And he was so beautiful.

Leaving the hospital not being pregnant and with empty arms was painful. I went home and sat in the rocking chair in the empty nursery and looked around. I began to pray. It was during this terrible time I developed a deep relationship with the Lord. The weeks following were hard, but I held onto the Lord and He held onto me. He showed me through his word and prayer how to deal with what had happened and gave me hope for the future. I could not have dealt with it without Him.

Some people may wonder how can someone go through this, or think, “I could not handle this if it happened to me,” or, “I feel so bad or sad for this family.” I admit the first year was hard. I remember certain events and times when I broke down. Like at Christmas when everyone was gathering for the family picture and I realized my son would never be in one.

But the Lord has mended my

broken heart. I can no longer be sad that my son is dead because he is alive and well in heaven with Jesus for eternity. Vincent means Victorious and Engel means Angel. So he is my “victorious angel.” He conquered this earth and went straight to heaven with Jesus.

I know that someday I will be there with him FOREVER. I cannot wait!

The Lord led me to a group called Glory Babies that was started by Jennifer Carson in Tyler, Texas. I found hope and healing through this group and started one here in St. Louis to help local women going through the death of a child before or after birth. Our goal is to walk alongside others who are grieving and help them find the mercy and grace that God offers us through His Son Jesus, in our time of need.

http://vincent-von-engel.memory-of.com

http://www.glorybabies.com/

Page 16 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

Share sincerely thanks those who have so graciously given donations in memory of a baby, relative, friend, and in honor

of all loved ones and through Matching Gift Programs. Gratuitous donations are also accepted from anyone who wants to

help Share in its mission. We gratefully acknowledge these gifts, which help us continue to reach out and fulfill the daily

needs of bereaved parents. Share’s services are available free of charge to bereaved parents, family and friends, or

anyone whose life has been touched by the loss of baby.

When you make a donation in memory of a loved baby, please include the name of the baby or babies, the birth or death

date(s) and the parent’s name(s). We would love to acknowledge your donation to the parents. If you donate in memory

or honor of a special loved one, please include their name(s) and pertinent information. A short message may also be

included with any donation. Please remember to include your return address and the addresses of those you wish to

receive an acknowledgement. Unless previously authorized to do so, Share will not release any personal information,

(address, phone number, e-mail, etc.) except to print donors names in this magazine. If you wish your name to remain

anonymous, please indicate this when submitting your donations. Thank you so much for your tender gifts!

Share’s mission is to serve those who are touched by the tragic death of a baby through early pregnancy loss, stillbirth or

in the first few months of life.

Six times a year, we share information and ideas from parents and professionals in a magazine to provide support and a

sense of friendship for bereaved parents. We hope you will find this magazine helpful and that you will share it with

others you feel it would interest.

We encourage you to send your personal articles, stories, poems, artwork and recipes to our magazine at any time.

Please do not submit copied, copyrighted, or web articles. The Magazine Editor reserves the right to edit your personal

submission for content and/or length to fit the needs of the particular magazine edition in which it will appear. Your

submission may be used for the current magazine, or may be used in a future publication. All submissions become the

property of Share.

Please include all pertinent personal information so we may identify you and your baby/ies in the respective publication.

Your submission grants Share permission to list your personal information with the publication unless instructed

otherwise.

Magazine Submission Guidelines:

1. Please provide title, authors’ name and applicable loss information for article submissions. If donating monetarily in memory of a baby, please provide loss information, including the parent’s name(s).

2. Submissions must be received no later than the 1st of the month, one month prior to issue month. If you are making a donation and would like to be recognized, or honor a birthday or anniversary, in the most recent edition of the magazine, then it, must be received by the 10th of the month, two months prior to the publication.

3. Please type your submissions in single spaced, 10 point, Times New Roman or Arial font when possible. 4. Submissions can be mailed to 402 Jackson, St. Charles, MO 63301, e-mailed to rcarlson@nationalshare.org or faxed

to the National Share Office at 636-947-7486.

Sharing Magazine Information:

Sharing Magazine is published by Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support, Inc. If you would like to reprint articles or submissions from Sharing please properly cite Share and the writer by stating the name of the organization, website, magazine, volume, and issue in your acknowledgements. If you would like to reprint an article or submission that is copyrighted by an author or a publishing company, you must obtain permission from the copyright holder to reprint. Email any questions to rcarlson@nationalshare.org.

Would you like to be removed from

mailing lists?

To remove bereaved parents’ names from mailing lists you can visit

http://www.privacyrights.org/fs/fs4-junk.htm#MPS

-OR- Send a letter plus a $1 check or money order to:

Mail Preference Service Direct Marketing Association

PO Box 643 Carmel, NY 10512

The Mission

With Gratitude

Page 17 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

Upcoming Issues of

Sharing

Magazine

March/April 2016

Surviving, Loving and

Thriving in the Everyday

In this issue, we will share stories

from parents who found ways to

cope with everyday life after the

death of their baby. If you have a

story, thought, or poem to share

about how you handled things

such as going back to work,

easing back into friendships,

dealt with baby showers and

other celebrations, as well as tips

for how to carry on with life

while grieving, we want to hear

from you.

May/June 2016

Mother’s/Father’s Day

How do you honor your role as

parents when your beloved baby

is not with you? What ways have

you found to spend these two

special days? Has someone done

something special for you or

given you a touching gift

celebrating you as a parent?

These days can be especially

difficult for those who are newly

grieving, and we invite you to

share whatever might bring some

comfort to those who are not

sure how to cope with these

holidays.

Sharing Magazine reaches over 10,000 families, and is shared

with countless others around the world. Please know how many

lives your story will touch.

Please submit your stories, poems and artwork to

rcarlson@nationalshare.org

Thank you!

Connect on Facebook

Search: Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support

Share offers several social communities in addition to

support groups. Search: Share Bereaved Families Peer Support for

general bereavement or Share Subsequent Pregnancy Peer Support if

you are currently pregnant or are planning to become pregnant

following the death of a baby. Please note that these are closed groups

and membership must be approved by an administrator.

Get the magazine delivered directly to your inbox!

In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, we have

decided to make the magazine available online. If you

would like to receive a copy via email, we would be

happy to add you to our mailing list. Visit

www.nationalshare.org then click ‘Subscribe’ in the

top right corner!

Find a Share Chapter Near You!

For a full list of all Share Chapters across the country, please visit

http://www.nationalshare.org/heal/sharechapters/

Need Resources? Shop on Share’s online store for books, gifts, memorial keepsakes and much more! https://www.z2systems.com/np/clients/share/giftstore.jsp

Follow Share on Pinterest for ideas and information

on memory making, jewelry, grief support resources,

books, holiday traditions and so much more!

Read our most current blog posts at www.nationalshare.blogspot.com

Stay connected

on Twitter!

@Share1977

We continue to expand our video library on YouTube.

Watch What’s Happening!

Page 18 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

UnEven By: Nora LaFata

Dear Josie, There is a perpetual earth-quake beneath me. I know it sounds absurd, but I can think of no better way to describe this time without you. My life on the uneven bars. It was the hardest part, initially. The most difficult thing for me to grasp was the finality of it all. In one second, everything in my life shifted. Altered. Kinked. In one second and there was no going back. Minutes would pass and people would walk in and around me and it was comical, almost, in a very cruel sense because it was so incredibly wrong and awful and horrific and everyone knew it, and there was nothing anyone could do because it was already done. I remember driving home from the hospital and wanting it to be ten years from now. I wanted the song playing on the radio to be old news, people scanning the archives of their respective collections to hear this very song, because so much time had passed and they'd forgotten and they wanted to listen again. To reminisce. To remember. You died and immediately I wanted you to be a memory. This most distant thing that I had to strain to think about. I longed for the day where thoughts of you became a forceful, purposeful action. A reminder of some specific time. How was it again? Oh yes. I remember a conversation with your uncle one night, during those first few torturous, grueling weeks without you. When the volume turned my stomach. When your melody, so

beautiful and so tragic and so repetitive, was all that I could hear. I told him what's the point, essentially, because if I live to be ninety and if I have twelve grandchildren and if I die in protest, fighting to be here until my very last breath I will still never be as happy as before you left me. I will never be 100%. I appreciated his response very much, because he didn't tell me this was untrue or unwarranted or that life would ever resume what it once was. He agreed that 100 wasn't an option, but he said maybe I could get to 99. And was 99 really so bad? Sometimes I feel so happy that it's almost like this never happened to us. The guilt that consumes me as I read that sentence is worth noting, but it's true. Sometimes I wish it weren't true, but I have gotten used to wishing things weren't I guess. Your little brother will be laughing, the most perfect and most contagious baby belly laugh, some of the very best stuff this life has to offer and I will forget, momentarily, that you never took a breath. I will forget how you looked that morning, so peaceful and so very far from me, how my body failed you. Or when I step outside just before a storm and I can smell the water in the air, and I'm puzzled because there's a gratitude that once escaped me. Sometimes I'll be sitting in traffic and I can see it so clearly, my parallel universe. She drives to the hospital that night and hears your heart beating. They send her home and she digests the reassuring paperwork with the leftover ravioli. Climbs into bed next to her husband and wakes to eggs in the

morning, laughing at the absurdity of it all, this notion that a perfectly healthy baby could just die. Just, die.

This weekend your father and I attended the wedding of two of our closest friends. They are more like family, actually, and it was an absolutely beautiful day. People were taking pictures and smiling and celebrating, and I couldn't help but allow my thoughts to wander to you. It is during these happiest of times where I find it impossible to ignore the disparity. My dead daughter's ashes beneath the Earth and the people dancing above them. During the reception as I lifted the fork, your name seemed to scream at me from my wrist. I felt the ground shift and it became difficult to hear the clanking glasses. For a moment things grew dark and I couldn't taste the food on my plate. I pictured us leaving. Your father holding my hand in his left and my pointy black heels in his right. I tell him where I want to go. We reach your tree and we bend, openly aching and yearning and

Page 19 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

UnEven (continued)

sad, and we drive home together feeling better because we cried. And it would have been granted, our exit. It would have been appropriate. I could have gone home to my babies, explaining to friends in the morning how it had consumed me so abruptly and they would have understood, only none of that happened.

I felt the shift and somehow I didn't fall.

I was sad because you weren't home waiting for us in your fuzzy pink pajamas, but I could still appreciate the garlic mashed potatoes. While I certainly felt the urge to run, I want you to know that I didn't run this time.

I didn't run because I also wanted to dance. Love, Mom

To read more of Nora’s writings on her blog, Here Comes the Sun, please visit: noralafata.blogspot.com

Thank you, Nora!

Mark Your Calendars!

For those interested in mindless trivia, a whole lot of fun, AND supporting

Share and the families we serve, please save the date for the 2016 Share

Trivia Night on Saturday, April 16, 2016. Details to follow, so stay tuned!

Save the Date: Trivia Night to Support Share

Spanish Share Group Launching

Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support is

pleased to announce the launch of a Spanish

Facebook community page. Watch for additional

information on the launch, and please forward this

along to anyone you believe would benefit.

Share comenzará a ofrecer apoyo a través de

Facebook a padres que han padecido la pérdida de

embarazo o muerte infantil. La página estará

habilitada a mediados de Enero.

[Share will be offering support through Facebook

to parents who suffered a pregnancy or infant

loss. The Facebook page will be available in mid-

January.]

If you have any interest in becoming involved with

the Spanish group, please email Share’s Executive

Director, Debbie Cochran,

dcochran@nationalshare.org. We are always eager

to have additional volunteers to assist with the

translation of the Share materials, online support,

and translate our resources to Spanish-speaking

families.

Page 20 Vo lu me 2 5, I ss u e 1

Share Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support is proud to announce the date and theme of the upcoming 14th

Annual Angel Ball Gala! Please join us as we “Let It Glow” on Saturday, April 9th at 6:00 PM at St. Louis

Marriott West. This elegant event is expected to raise thousands of dollars to support Share’s mission to serve

those whose lives are touched by the death of a baby. The gala includes a lovely dinner and fantastic auction,

along with the company of many of Share’s strongest supporters and beloved families.

“The Angel Ball is an exciting event that allows Share to showcase our mission to the attendees, in addition to

generating funds for such an important mission. The monies assist Share in achieving our many goals of

supporting bereaved families in crisis and making hope tangible,” said Share’s Executive Director, Debbie

Cochran, BSN, MA.

For information on sponsorship opportunities, attending the event, or making a donation, please contact

Sarah Lawrenz at 636-947-6164 or slawrenz@nationalshare.org. Registration will be opening soon!