Team Ellis
We are participating in memory of Ellis J Mills, who was born October 22, 2016 at 4 pounds 9.4 ounces and 18 inches long. Ellis has touched and transformed us and our family. At his memorial service, we blessed a statue of Bodhisattva Jizo, protector of children who die before their parents, by reading this haiku:
The young sparrows
return into Jizo's sleeve
for sanctuary
- Issa , 1814
The sparrow has become an Ellis symbol for us, a reminder when we see one that he is everywhere, always.
We are so grateful for how Empty Arms helped ensure that Melissa and Justin got the opportunity to make memories of their time with Ellis, and for all the support and comfort they have offered.
Thank you for helping toward our fundraising goal.
Syrup Stampede
Syrup Stampede will be a fun, family friendly 5k run/walk event. Donations and raised funds will benefit Empty Arms, an organization geared toward helping families of the Pioneer Valley grieve the loss of a pregnancy or infant. The Empty Arms Community Members not only hope to raise awareness of this awesome organization but also hope to demonstrate our want and desire to integrate our losses into poistive events surrounding the memories of our babies.
Empty Arms
Empty Arms Bereavement Support serves members of the Western Mass community whose babies have died at any time during pregnancy or early infancy. We look to provide and create a compassionate community, fostering connections, validation, and resources to grieving parents.