FAMILIES who have suffered the tragic loss as a result of a foetal, neo-natal, stillbirth or ectopic pregnancy, or whose babies have died shortly after birth are being invited to the annual Loved and Lost Baby Service at Glangwili General Hospital later this month.

This service of remembrance and hope for all loved babies is held at the Chapel/Quiet Room at 12pm (noon) on Saturday, April, 20.

It will offer and include reflections, prayers, poems, songs and music that is sensitive to all–faiths and none.

Candles will be lit in remembrance, along with the chance to place a tag message on the Baby Remembrance Tree.

Euryl Howells, the Senior Chaplain, said: “Our society still struggles to embrace families who suffer a pregnancy loss.

"However we need to acknowledge and recognise the physical loss and to endorse the long-term emotional trauma. "The attitude has improved slightly but largely remains a taboo subject with many failing to understand the genuine loss and its perpetual impact.

"This is a dedicated time to come together and remember these forever loved babies.

"Our hope is that each year this service plays a small part in helping families cope with their loss and gives them space to remember in a safe and supportive environment."

Parents, siblings or grandparents, friends are welcome.

If your heartbreak was recent or many years ago and you resided outside the Hywel Dda catchment area, you are invited to join us as we remember the loss surrounded by others who are conscious and identify with what you have and continue to live through.

Staff are present to guide, support and comfort.

To close there will be an interval to release bubbles in memory of your loved baby and a time to place a memorial card in a capsule.

If you are unable to attend and wish to place a memory card please advise Euryl.

For further information about the service, contact Euryl Howells on 01267 227563 or euryl.howells2@wales.nhs.uk.