Baby Loss Awareness Week (October 9-15) is an annual event to bring together those affected by pregnancy and baby loss in remembrance, culminating in the global Wave of Light event.

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s spiritual care department and midwifery, gynaecology and neonatal team are committed to supporting those affected by stillbirth, loss in pregnancy or the death of a baby.

This week is also an opportunity to honour the lives of these special babies. This support extends to parents, families, friends, and healthcare staff who were, or would have been an important part of these babies’ lives.

Throughout the week, blue and pink lights will be displayed in the Chapel / Quiet Rooms in Bronglais, Glangwili, Prince Philip and Withybush hospitals.

Regional events have also been arranged to provide bereaved parents, families and friends with a safe and supportive space to come together in memory of the babies who lit up our lives for such a short time. Health Board staff will be in attendance to offer support.

In Pembrokeshire, this takes place at Withybush Hospital Chapel, Haverfordwest, SA61 2PZ on Tuesday, October 7, starting 7pm. This will form part of the annual Forget Me Not service.

The Wave of Light on Wednesday, October 15 marks the conclusion of Baby Loss Awareness Week. At 7pm, the Senior Chaplain of the Health Board will light a battery-operated candle in the Chapel / Quiet Room at Glangwili Hospital in memory of all the babies who lit up our lives for such a short time.

You are warmly invited to join in the commemorations by lighting a candle at home or in a communal space (the health board recommends using battery-operated candles where possible and reminds people to take care if using real flames.)

Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Baby Loss Awareness Week is a special time to honour the brief but beautiful lives of the babies we carry in our hearts.

“It’s also a moment to stand together in love and remembrance, offering comfort to those who grieve. Whether you can join us at one of our events or light a candle at home, your act of remembrance helps shine a light of hope and solidarity across our communities.”

Anyone who is unable to attend an event but would like to forward a message to be included, can email [email protected]

If you need further support or have been affected by Baby Loss Awareness Week, contact Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain at Hywel Dda University Health Board on [email protected] or call 01267 227563.

If urgent support is needed, call Glangwili Hospital’s switchboard on 01267 235151 and ask for the Long Range contact.