By Ashley Wall

What makes a circle unique? A circle’s line is never-ending in its gentle repeated bend. To be inside the circle is to be enclosed by and part of something that is complete–yet also sheltered from what is beyond its edge. Like Robert De Niro’s “Circle of Trust” in Meet the Parents, being inside the circle means being a loyal and safeguarded member, even for the hilariously eccentric Byrne family in the movie.

The Heartstrings Circle of Hope is an annual event that fits this circle theme by creating a comfortable place where parents who have experienced child loss can come together to support each other. The immediate, essential support from friends and extended family following a child’s death eventually diminishes over time as they resume their lives–yet the parents reawaken to their grief every day.

The Circle of Hope is a source of support they can count on every year. The power of connection and of feeling truly understood and safe to share one’s story is as unique as the circle itself. This circle has a soft edge that welcomes community beyond the parents and families. Anyone impacted by the loss of a child aged 1 to young adult is invited to join in the activities, especially those from the medical community, first-responders, and mentors.

The Second Annual Circle of Hope will be held 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, August 13 at Shelter #7 in Triad Park. The day will include memorial crafts, music, small groups, a memorial program with a slideshow, and an optional picnic at noon. Porterhouse Burger Truck will be on site for lunch purchases or participants may bring their own picnic to enjoy with live music. The event is free thanks to the generous Presenting Sponsors: Linville Team Partners, Childress Institute for Pediatric Trauma, Eagle Physicians, and Twin City Sprinkler Co., Inc. among others.

This year WFMY TV 2’s renowned broadcaster and industry pioneer Sandra Hughes will be the featured guest speaker. Sandra’s career spans 38 years as a reporter, show host, and lead news anchor, yet despite her flourishing career, she struggled privately following the tragic death of her child in 1984.

Sandra will speak about her life-changing experience of child loss and endurance for the first time. “When I lost my little boy, I did not believe it could happen to me, but with the help of God, my family and friends, I was able to put it in a place that I could live with,” she recently explained. She will share her personal journey in hopes that it will help others walking a similar path.

Register for this free event at www.HeartstringsSupport.org or 336-335-9931.

Heartstrings is a nonprofit organization solely dedicated to providing compassionate validation, bereavement education and hope to Triad families who have suffered pregnancy, infant and child loss and is the primary resource for grief support training for medical caregivers in our community.

Second Annual Heartstrings Circle of Hope Event

Saturday, August 13

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Triad Park

Free, Rain or Shine

www.HeartstringsSupport.org