A special Christmas event aimed at making one of the most difficult times of year that little bit easier for bereaved parents is scheduled to be held for a second year.
Organised by Banbridge woman, Natasha Quinn – mum of Zach Quinn, whom the event is named after – hosts the special day for the parents, grandparents and siblings of infants who have passed away, providing a safe space for bereaved families at a time that can often prove quite challenging.
Speaking to Armagh I ahead of last year’s event, Natasha explained how, in navigating the heartache of losing her own son Zach at just two days old, she decided to turn her grief into something positive.
Zach was born prematurely on Boxing Day 2021. As a result of his early birth his lungs had not fully developed and Zach sadly passed away just one day later.
Following Zach’s death, Christmas became such a difficult time for the family that Natasha described it as “horrific”.
Understanding the conflicting emotions of wanting to feel joyous at Christmas, of wanting to create memories with siblings but feeling a pang of guilt or sadness when she did, Natasha knew there had to be a way to provide a sensitive solution for herself and others who knew her pain.
After speaking to a Bereavement Midwife, who agreed to take the idea forward on Natasha’s behalf, the event was soon agreed and the idea snowballed from there.
In its inaugural year, Zach’s Grotto opened it’s doors on December 1, 2024 at Dromore Listening Rooms and families from across the Southern Trust area attended for a memorable day of festive fun.
And now it’s back once again, scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025.
Booking is necessary for all families and there will be two time slots allocated at 12pm and 1.45pm with no time limit once there.
The address will be provided at the time of booking.
This event is open to all parents and their family members who have sadly experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death.
Click here to find more information and to make a booking.
