Perinatal loss – that is, the death of an infant due to miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death - can be a traumatic experience for families. And despite the global pandemic, a Saskatchewan organization continues to provide support for those facing this heartbreaking situation.
The Regina-based Twinkle Star Project aims to provide support and services for families grieving the loss of a baby. Since its founding three years ago, the volunteer-led team has provided handmade baby baskets, weighted teddy bears and other mementos to those in Saskatchewan hospitals experiencing perinatal loss. Peer-to-peer support is also available.
Like other organizations, the Twinkle Star Project has had to adapt its outreach activities due to COVID-19. This included an online yoga session for bereaved mothers in June. Though it was something the group had wanted to do in person, the virtual event “was well attended and a beautiful event,” said Twinkle Star’s president Brooke Larson. Additionally, earlier this month the group organized its annual Silent Hearts Perinatal Loss Walk in Regina while mandating physical distancing among participants.
Despite the pandemic, the Twinkle Star Project continues to expand, most recently to Alberta, ensuring patients experiencing this immense loss receive the support they need.
The Twinkle Star projects provides handmade baby baskets to Saskatchewan hospitals, for those who have experienced perinatal loss.