Shining a light on child loss in the Territory

WHEN Ellen and Dean Brand’s son Maxwell died in utero at 38 weeks, the couple was absolutely heartbroken

Ellen Kay Brand, Dean William Brand at Gunn. Picture: KERI MEGELUS

WHEN Ellen and Dean Brand’s son Maxwell died in utero at 38 weeks, the couple was absolutely heartbroken.

No parent should ever have to bury their child.

Mrs Brand said the support provided by SIDS and Kids NT was incredible — with a support worker helping them with everything from planning the funeral to getting back into routine.

Tragically, just three months after Maxwell died, Mrs Brand was diagnosed with cancer. She was shocked to discover that the services and support offered during her cancer journey were far greater than child loss.

This Sunday, SIDS and Kids NT’s annual Walk 2 Remember offers Territory families the opportunity to talk about the children they have lost.

It’s also a chance for the community to show these families some support. Mrs Brand said the event allowed families to openly discuss and acknowledge their child.

“The stigma and shame surrounding child loss is still prevalent despite one in four pregnancies resulting in a loss,” she said.

No family should ever have to feel alone when they are going through such a devastating time.

No family should ever have to go through the pain of losing a child without support.

This Sunday, at Sanctuary Lakes Park, Territorians are urged to head down to the event and show their support for SIDS and Kids NT and all the incredible work they do.