An event will take place in Aberystwyth this Thursday to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week (9-15 October).

The event helps to raise awareness of pregnancy and baby loss, remember much-loved babies, and support those whose lives have been touched by loss.

The week concludes with the international Wave of Light, when people across the world light candles in memory of babies who died too soon.

Hywel Dda’s Spiritual Care Team, together with maternity and gynaecology services, is committed to supporting bereaved parents and families following stillbirth, loss in pregnancy or the death of a baby.

Baby Loss Awareness Week is a time not only to remember and honour these babies, but also to acknowledge the lasting impact their loss has on parents, wider family members, friends and the healthcare professionals who have supported them.

Throughout the week, blue and pink lights will illuminate the Chapel/Quiet Rooms within Bronglais, Glangwili, Prince Philip and Withybush hospitals in remembrance. In addition, public buildings across the Hywel Dda region will be illuminated in support of Baby Loss Awareness Week.

A series of remembrance events have been held across the Hywel Dda area, offering bereaved parents, families and friends a safe and compassionate space to come together, reflect, and celebrate the lives of babies who will always be remembered.

On Thursday 15 October at 6.30pm, The Atrium (foyer) at Ceredigion County Council’s Canolfan Rheidol building will host a service to lead into the global Wave of Light at 7pm.

People are warmly invited to attend the service.

Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of babies who are deeply loved and never forgotten.

“Through our remembrance services, the Wave of Light and personal moments of reflection, we create opportunities for families, friends and staff to honour precious lives and find comfort in knowing they are surrounded by understanding, compassion and care.”

If you are unable to attend an event but would like to forward a message to be included, please email [email protected]

If you need further support or have been affected by Baby Loss Awareness Week, please contact Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at Hywel Dda University Health Board on [email protected] or call 01267 227563.

If urgent support is needed, please call Glangwili Hospital’s switchboard on 01267 235151 and ask for the Long Range contact.