'Wave of light' at Portiuncula to mark pregnancy and infant loss this Friday

Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe will be illuminated by pink and blue light tomorrow (Friday, October 15) from 7pm, as part of an international 'Wave of Light' to mark pregnancy and infant loss.

Throughout Ireland and across the world, landmarks and buildings will be lit by pink and blue light on 15 October as part of a continuous wave of light to recognise, acknowledge and remember babies who have passed away due to miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, and other causes of infant loss.

The International Wave of Light invites families, friends, loved ones and supporting organisations to join in remembrance of loved and longed-for babies.

Lighting begins at the International Date Line and moves through each time zone as the Wave of Light circumnavigates the globe. The result is a continuous chain of light for a 24-hour period, illuminating the night in love and light in honour and remembrance.

Emma McArt, Bereavement Support Midwife at the hospital, said, "As part of the Wave of Light on Friday we will also have a candle lighting beside a remembrance tree in the hospital foyer from 7pm to 8pm in honour of parents and families who are grieving the loss of their baby."