Coffey Health System is joining the global “Wave of Light” event honoring infant/child loss. Along with communities worldwide, the Coffey and Woodson County residents are invited to gather at Kelley Park in Burlington on Tuesday, October 15, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Candles honoring these precious lives will be lit at 7 p.m.
“The loss of an infant or child is a pain that never goes away,” said Casey Lyons, obstetrics supervisor at Coffey County Hospital. “We are honored to bring this candlelit ceremony to our community again this year and allow these families and friends to share their never-ending love.”
While the Wave of Light program explicitly honors those lost during pregnancy and infancy, parents can request candles for candles for older children at the CHS event.
“We recognize that many area families have felt the pain of losing a child, and we hope to honor their precious memories, as well,” Lyons said.
Parents/guardians may submit the names of infants or children (or due dates) online or at the event. CLICK HERE to request a candle in your child’s honor. Anonymous candles can also be submitted by anyone who wishes to memorialize an infant or child.
As part of the worldwide Wave of Light memorial, candles will burn from 7 - 8 p.m. with names read aloud intermittently throughout the evening.
This is the second year CHS has participated in the Wave of Light program.
History of Global Wave of Light
Global Wave of Light originated from the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Movement, which began in the United States in the 1980s. Parents and advocates came together to raise awareness about the emotional and often silent journey of pregnancy and infant loss. The movement led to the designation of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and the observance of Global Wave of Light on October 15.
Since its inception, Global Wave of Light has grown into a global phenomenon, with individuals and organizations worldwide coming together to remember and support those who have experienced the loss of a child.