CUH to hold annual service of remembrance for families who have lost a child

The children’ services at Cork University Hospital (CUH) and previously at the Mercy University Hospital (MUH) now amalgamated to CUH, are holding a ‘Service of Remembrance’ for families who have sadly experienced the death of a child.

This remembrance service will take place on Friday, March 7 at 7pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Western Road.

All parents, families and children are invited to attend this special service, which is returning to an ‘in-person’ event having been held online during the covid pandemic.

However, the service will remain available to view online as a recording for those who are unable to attend and for families and friends who may live further away.

The service is for any family whose child has died, no matter the circumstance or period. Specific invites are however sent to families who have been bereaved within a certain timeframe. Families who have been bereaved outside this timeframe are also welcome to attend.

One of the organisers, Tyrone Horne, a clinical nurse co-ordinator for children with life limiting conditions at the CUH, said: “The death of a child is a devastating experience for parents and family members.

“This multi-denominational ‘Service of Remembrance’ provides an opportunity for the hospital community to come together with the bereaved parents and families to remember their child, to offer support and to comfort one-another at what will be a reflective ceremony.

“It will comprise of harmonious readings and music. There will be an opportunity for families to present a decorated keepsake, light candles in memory of their child, write an inscription in the ‘Book of Remembrance’, and to spend some reflective time with other families who are sharing the same journey.”

Parents and families will be invited to join hospital staff and other parents for light refreshments in the adjoining parish centre at the end of the ceremony. There will also be activities provided for children who attend the service.

Julianne Crowley, chaplin at CUH added: “Previous services have been reported as a great success providing uplifting experiences for both families and staff. 

“The event revealed to families how much the children meant to the staff, and revealed to staff the difference they made to these families during a most vulnerable and difficult time.”