CLEVELAND, Ohio – Parents who have experienced the loss of an infant or unborn child are encouraged to light a candle in remembrance during this year’s virtual Wave of Light event. The free event runs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 15, with the candle-lighting ceremony at 7 p.m.
Registration for area parents is available through First Year Cleveland’s Pregnancy and Infant Loss Initiative. Families who wish to receive a candle and have the name of their loved ones read aloud must register by Thursday, Oct. 1.
The Northeast Ohio portion of the international event typically takes place at the Cleveland Botanical Gardens. As with so many events, pandemic-related health concerns led to the decision to go remote in 2020.
“While we can’t physically be together for the Wave of Light event this year, we welcome individuals to join us by computer or phone to participate in a ceremony that gives parents and others an opportunity to reflect upon their pregnancy or infant loss,” said Tracy Carter, co-chair of the First Year Cleveland Pregnancy and Infant Loss Initiative.
The event, which is entering its third year in Greater Cleveland, continues to grow. The initial offering featured about 50 participants, though 2020 is expected to see virtual attendance well into the hundreds. In previous years, parents discussed the hardships associated with the loss of a child, though 2020 will also include the voices of siblings who expected to have a lifelong companion, only to see such hopes dashed by circumstances well beyond their control.
Parents develop the annual program agenda, which typically involves testimonials, a prayer and the candle lighting.
“It’s a society you never want to be a part of,” remarked Carter. “The loss is forever with you.”
Decades removed from the tragedy, many still take time to light a candle. Many light more than one.
Wave of Light is the culmination of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day and Baby Loss Awareness Week. All who have lost an infant or unborn child are strongly encouraged to participate.
Cuyahoga County has experienced one of the highest rates of infant mortality in the nation over the past half-century. Premature births continue to be an issue as well. Environmental factors and poverty certainly play a part, though the racial component is hard to deny. According to First Year Cleveland, Cuyahoga County black infants died at more than three times the rate of their white counterparts in 2019. The disturbing disparity is higher within the City of Cleveland.
First Year Cleveland, established in 2015 by community leaders concerned with the high death toll among area infants and unborn children, launched the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Initiative in 2018. PAIL focuses on minorities and is directed by a 40-member committee including healthcare providers, mental health professionals, members of the black community, faith leaders, representatives from government agencies and nonprofit organizations and others. PAIL helps families who have experienced loss through support groups, remembrance ceremonies, education, wellness events and more.
In 2020, PAIL formed Our Wellness Network. OWN is dedicated to connecting grieving black parents in Greater Cleveland to black mental health professionals, parents who have experienced similar losses, clergy and advocates.
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