BEARS of Hope was formed in Sydney in 2006 with the vision of providing pregnancy and infant loss support.
Today, it operates nationally across all Australian states and territories, partnering with hospitals, doctors and IVF clinics to support families in their grief.
In 2016, Choosing Hope was launched.
The flagship annual event is held in October during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, allowing bereaved families to join on a walk of honour and remembrance.
Three years ago, funeral director Michelle Freeman initiated a walk in Laurieton for the Camden Haven community.
“I felt there was no connection or support group locally,” she said.
“As a funeral director and bereaved aunty, I felt there was a real gap in services for our community.”
Around 100 people gathered this year to share their collective loss in a walk, supported by a grant from Laurieton United Services Club.
North Haven’s Jessica Rogers is a mum to sons Oxley, Lincoln and Hardy, and daughter Willow, who was stillborn in 2017.
Along with her partner, Ben Fletcher she’s a committed advocate of Bears of Hope’s services for families.
“We were delighted when Michelle decided to do a walk here,” she said.
“It’s important that we come together as a community and provide a safe space.
“We have done the City to Surf to raise funds previously, and we reach out to other families in the same position.
“We know what it feels like.”
By Rachael THORPE
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
