The loss of a pregnancy or death of a baby is a heartbreak no family should have to endure. Yet, for many in Lincoln County and across the nation, this is a painful reality that leaves parents grieving and often feeling alone.

To offer comfort, connection, and a space for remembrance, the Lincoln County Health Department hosted a special event called the Wave of Light.

The event was held with the support of Cindy Morris, a devoted advocate and the mother of Jeffery, who passed away in 2004. Cindy has become a beacon of support for loss parents in Lincoln, Montgomery, and St. Charles Counties. She leads a monthly support group for bereaved parents and was instrumental in bringing the Angel of Hope statue to Weinand Park.

The event was held Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. in Weinand Park at the Angel of Hope Statue. This statue is an exact replica of the Christmas Box Angel statue in Salt Lake City, Utah. The angel honors the memories of children who have died.

Parents can buy memorial bricks at the base of the statue and have them engraved in memory of their child.

During the event, bereaved mothers courageously shared their stories of loss, accompanied by touching poems and music. At the conclusion, families lovingly spoke the names of their children lost too soon. This act of remembrance affirms their enduring presence in the hearts and minds of all of who loved them.

“We want families to know that they are seen, they are supported, and their babies are remembered” said Public Health Program Coordinator Kim Dang. “We’re deeply grateful for Cindy’s support and guidance in putting this event together.”

Families and community members are invited to come together again in solidarity to honor children who were lost too soon at the yearly memorial in December. Please feel free to bring a candle with a drip catch and white flowers as symbols of remembrance and hope.