Join us on Saturday, June 21st at 10:00 am at the Ephrata Public Library (550 S Reading Rd, Ephrata, PA 17522) as we discuss the Romanticization and Stigmatization of pregnancy and infant loss. We will explore the many ways that healing is impacted by these concepts and the ways those around us may unintentionally romanticize and/or further the stigma around it. We will also do an activity to explore these emotions.
Anyone is welcome to join, but if possible, please mark “going” on the event to ensure that enough supplies are available! (Decided at the last minute to come or bring a friend? That’s okay! We will have extra, don’t let that stop you!)
Please message us if you plan to bring your child, so we can be sure to have a volunteer available.
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General Information:
Share’s Love and Support Workshops exist to foster a community of hope and healing. We recognize every individual walks a unique path after loss. We value supportive and healing care through this journey of grief. We offer support and are with you each step of the way.
Our workshops address all aspects of a loss journey: the initial loss (miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, etc.), ongoing grief, pregnancy and parenting after loss, and navigating your changed life. There is no timeline, no judgement, no right or wrong with us- just love and support.
Things can feel hopeless after loss, but we are here with you as you work towards finding a way to feel your grief fully while also finding joy in life again.
Workshops are facilitated by Alison (Ali) Ferrara, LCSW. Ali is a loss Mom and local therapist. Ali's first born, Mira, was diagnosed with several birth defects in utero that would make it impossible for her to survive outside the womb. Ali and her husband (Joe) chose to carry Mira to term to celebrate every moment of life they could with her. Mira lived for 53 minutes after birth, in the arms of her parents the entire time. After many treatments for secondary infertility, Ali and Joe welcomed a healthy son into their family. They all live together in Lititz with their dog and two cats. Ali is passionate about helping
others through pregnancy/infant loss as she continues the lifelong journey of integrating grief and joy together in her own life.
Structure of Workshops:
• Introductions: Anyone who would like to is asked to share a bit about themselves and their loss.
• Educational Time: Workshop leader will share information on the selected topic to help you in your journey
• Sharing Time: Participants are invited to share with the group about the topic, or their journey in general, so we can support each other. You are not required or pushed to share.
• Healing Activity: We will engage in an activity together while we share to promote healing and explore our grief.
What Can I Expect?
• Openness and Acceptance: Our group is supportive of all individuals and couples. We are open and affirming to the LGBTQ+ community. We are welcoming to anyone without regard to faith or spirituality. All races and cultures are respected.
• Topics: Each workshop will have a predetermined topic. Examples include: Coping, Facing Holidays, Relationships, Pregnancy/ Parenting After Loss, Faith Changes, and Holding Space for Your Baby
• Leaders: Workshops are led by volunteers with both professional and personal loss experience.
• Participants: Our workshops are attended by loss parents (mothers, fathers, and non-birthing parents), grandparents, other family members, and friends who need support or want to learn how to support their loved ones. Individuals currently pregnant after loss are welcome!
You are welcome to bring your children, who can stay in the main library area with a Share volunteer. You will remain responsible for any caregiving needs- such as feeding or diapering- during this time. A volunteer will get you if needed!
**Please message us if you plan to bring your child, so we can be sure to have a volunteer available**
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