Elsie Lange
For many women and caregivers across the country, Mother’s Day isn’t always cause for celebration.
The second Sunday of May is a difficult time of grieving for those who have lost children – a reminder of something hard to grapple with.
That’s why Woodend’s Kylie Swain spent Sunday, May 1, putting on a Bereaved Mother’s Day in town – as part of International Bereaved Mother’s Day commemorated on the first Sunday in May.
Ms Swain said she put on the do at the Norma Richardson Hall to help bereaved mothers in the community feel nurtured and loved.
“This event means so much to me,” Ms Swain said.
“It’s a way to keep my daughter Zara’s memory going, it also is very healing to help other mothers.
“As this is the second year, it was nice to reconnect with mothers who came last year, and it was also nice to see some extra mum’s this year – it was heart-warming to see the community’s generosity,” she said.
Donated flowers, food and treats made the day special for all those who attended.
Ms Swain said her favourite aspect of it all was “how the community came together to support my dream of putting on this event”.
“Also, seeing each mum leave a little lighter with a bag of donated goodies.”
