A residential weekend retreat for bereaved parents
On Saturday 21st September 2019, a group of parents came together to "Reflect, Restore, Renew" in the unique and calm surroundings of St Katharine’s Parmoor in Henley-on-Thames.
Now in its third year, the weekend gave parents time away from the distractions of everyday life to connect with their grief and other bereaved parents in a supporting, caring environment.
About the retreat:
The weekend was facilitated by our wonderful patron and founder of Child Bereavement UK ,Jenni Thomas along with Nicki Whitworth, founder of SLOW (Surviving the loss of your world). It provided parents the opportunity to speak about their babies and to reflect on how the experience of loss affects us, our relationships and our world.
Sessions included group therapy, mindfulness meditation, creative writing and gentle yoga as well as time for outdoor exercise. Aromatherapy massages, reiki and reflexology were also offered to all parents.
Comments from parents who attended our retreat this year:
"It was so lovely to spend a weekend dedicated to parenting Anna. To be given time to be together with our grief with no judgement of ourselves and each other. To meet others where conversation about our babies was easy and comfortable because we all understand".
"I am so grateful for the opportunity for reflection, guided discussions, connecting with others 'like me', celebrating all of our babies and the time to slow down and to be present"
"Its' clear how much all of us loved our children. It helps so much to connect with other bereaved parents, to hear their stories and to hear about their children. It helps to know we're not alone"
"Meeting other parents and being able to connect with others has been so important"
All costs are funded Teddy’s Wish. If you are interested in attending one of our future retreats, or if you have any questions, please email jennifer@teddyswish.org
