Families supported by a Balloch children’s hospice gathered to remember their children on a memorial walk around the Bonnie Banks.
Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), who run Balloch’s Robin House Hospice, organised the poignant tribute for the first time on October 9, with almost 100 people taking part.
Families were given a hand-painted pebble to commemorate the day and at the end of the walk, CHAS Lead Chaplain, Amanda Reid, planted a tree in the grounds of Loch Lomond Shores, leaving a lasting reminder of the event.
Talented teenager, Jack Mullen, from Bonhill also provided some entertainment for the families, performing a number of classic songs.
Amanda said: “The memory walk is a unique way to bring bereaved families together to remember their child or children.
The event has allowed families to meet face to face, perhaps for the first time, with others who have shared a similar journey.
“The walk is also a chance for families to create new memories with friends and loved ones, with Loch Lomond and Ben Lomond providing a stunning backdrop.
“We’re delighted to have been able to hold this important event during CHAS’s 30th anniversary year and hope to hold further events in the future.
“We’d like to thank Loch Lomond Shores for all their support organising the event and for kindly donating the tree. Thanks also go to Jack who is a long-time supporter of CHAS.”
One family who attended the event are the McMillan family whose daughter, Amelia, died in July of this year at only 15 months old and was supported by Robin House. Mum Ainslidh said: “For us, this event is about keeping Amelia’s memory alive. I love talking about Amelia and telling people her story.
“We also have good bond with Amanda from CHAS so we wanted to see her today too.”
CHAS is the only charity in Scotland that provides hospice services for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions.
The national charity offers palliative care and respite for the whole family via its two hospices, Robin House in Balloch and Rachel House in Kinross.
They also offer a CHAS at Home service that supports families in their own homes across the whole of Scotland and through its Diana Children’s Nurses and specialist children’s consultants working in hospitals across the
country.
