Hastings: Candlelight Vigil To Be Held For Parents Who Have Lost A Child

Friday, 10 December 2021 09:52

By Jade McLean

A Hastings mum who lost her only child to illness is asking other bereaved parents to meet her and light a candle to remember their lost children on Worldwide Candle Lighting Day.

Natalie Reeves lost her son James in June 2018 at just two-years-old.

"My only child James was born in June 2016.

"I was a single Mum and we spent days out at playgroups and parks in Battle, Bexhill and Hastings.

"James also loved Clambers and in better weather he loved Hastings beach and the playground by the crazy golf too.

James did have ill health and under horrible circumstances passed away in June 2018 days after his 2nd birthday.

"He is now resting at Battle Cemetery which I visit every weekday."

Natalie is inviting other bereaved parents, who have lost a child of any age, to meet her at Hastings Crazy Golf at 6.45pm this Sunday (Dec 12) evening.

Sunday is Worldwide Candle Lighting Day for children passed and candles will be lit at 7pm in their memories.

"We will go onto the beach by 7pm to make light for our beautiful children saying their names and speaking about them if you wish.

"Will be nice if anyone wants to join me. I'm sure it will be helpful for bereaved parents to be together especially at this time of year."

She added:

"I have no surviving children and it is still very difficult at times. I now work as a night support worker and have good friends and family.

"There is little support or groups in this area for people that have lost a child.

"Myself and my Mum travelled to Folkestone for a candle lighting event pre-covid.

"Worldwide candle lighting at 7pm is always held on the 2nd Sunday in December for children that have passed so that "their light may shine" across the world through different time zones.

"I thought it will be nice to have something local.

"I may offer a support group following this for people that want someone to share their grief and feelings with."