A walk in the park is known to do your heart some good, but on Saturday, May 24 that little bit of exercise will go a long way towards soothing the hearts of those grieving a loss.
The third annual Healing Hearts 5k Run/2k Walk will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Royal Roads University. Hosted by the Pacific Perinatal Foundation, the event raises funds to support people experiencing reproductive trauma – such as infertility, early pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and other difficult pregnancy-related events.
“There is no public funding for support services for bereaved families. Everyone should have access to compassionate, wrap-around care,” said Dr. Kim MacDonald, co-founder of the Pacific Perinatal Foundation.
One in four childbearing-aged people will experience miscarriage or pregnancy loss, while one in six struggle with infertility. Although common, too many suffer alone.
After losing their son Willem to a rare condition causing stillbirth and enduring two subsequent miscarriages, Anna and Jan Shill found solace and strength through the Pacific Perinatal Foundation. With PPF’s support, including grief counselling, they navigated the isolating grief of pregnancy loss and are now cherishing life with their healthy baby, James.
“After a loss, the world keeps spinning – but inside, you feel completely still,” said Anna, who hopes their story helps others feel less alone.
The Healing Hearts Walk/Run aims to raise $55,000 to support families with counselling, programs, and support, while raising awareness about infertility and pregnancy loss. Funds raised provide fully subsidized counselling, mindfulness-based group programs, a community and other critical resources.
To find out more or register for the Healing Hearts run and walk, visit https://pacificperinatalfoundation.com/.
