by Jane Adams
Join us for the 6th annual Charlee’s Run on May 7! This event is coming to the Ferguson Forest Centre in Kemptville for the first time this year – with proceeds supporting the Winchester District Memorial Hospital’s Family Birthing Unit.
Charlee’s Run is a 1 km/5 km Fun Run/Walk named in memory of Charlee Clare Holmes, started by her parents, Dave and Mallory Holmes. It has been held annually since 2017 in honour of all those who have experienced prenatal and infant loss. The Run aims to bring the community together to raise awareness for pregnancy and infant loss, to offer support for those in need, and to provide an outlet for families to remember the little ones that have been lost too soon.
“When we lost our daughter, Charlee, we felt alone in our loss. There are no words, no language surrounding pregnancy and infant loss; this often leaves people silent, which adds to the loneliness of an immeasurable loss,” explain Mallory and Dave. “After losing Charlee, we never wanted another family to feel alone. We thought if our story could reach even one family in need then it was worth it.”
Proceeds will be used for two special purposes at WDMH. First, funds will be used to purchase a cuddle cot, which is a special bassinette that allows parents time to bond with their child – to love and hold them, take pictures, and create a bond with lasting memories. Plans are also underway to set up a bereavement program at WDMH. A bereavement cart will be kept on the Family Birthing Unit, offering helpful resources for families who experience a loss.
“Thank you to Mallory and Dave Holmes for organizing this special event in honour of Charlee,” says Justine Plummer, the WDMH Foundation’s Manager of Direct Mail & Events. “The proceeds will support other families during a difficult time, and we are very grateful.”
To register or to donate to Charlee’s Run – Winchester, please visit www.charleesrun.com. Another run will take place on the same day in Orillia, Ontario, supporting Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Your donation will be managed by Orillia Solders’ Memorial Hospital, with proceeds coming to the WDMH Foundation after the event.
