The butterfly can be seen as a symbol of transformation, and of the unending cycle of life and death. For many, myself included, butterflies are a symbol of the children we have lost.

Four months have passed since we lost our son Lachlan. Over that time, I have had so many people reach out with words of comfort, as well as their own stories of loss. And, through a bereavement group at Roger Neilson House I have connected with an amazing group of mothers and fathers who are also wading through very fresh grief over the death of their own baby. It is healing to know I am not alone, but it is also alarming to realize how truly uncommon infant loss, stillbirth and miscarriage is. Yet – still, the death of baby seems to be one of those taboo subjects people have such tough time talking about.

It is with the hope of breaking that stigma and providing compassion, that The Butterfly Run was created. The Butterfly Run aims to raise awareness around miscarriage, infant loss, and infertility. The Ottawa/Gatineau edition of the run is now in its second year. In addition to raising awareness, all funds raised from the run go directly to Roger Neilson House. Last year’s inaugural run raised more than $30 ooo.

Roger Neilson House offers multiple services, including a Perinatal Hospice program which provides support to families whose babies are likely to die before, during, or shortly after birth. I can’t say enough about how much the staff and services at Roger Neilson House have meant for our family.

The 2017 run was named “Aaron’s Butterfly Run” as it was organized in honour of Rachel and Rob Samulack’s baby Aaron Samulack.

This year’s Butterfly Run is being named “Charlotte and Théo’s Butterfly Run” after two beloved babies who passed away last year. Charlotte’s mother Anne-Marie and Théo’s mother Claire have both taken up the weighty task of serving as co-chairs of this year’s butterfly run in honour of their children.

Charlotte and Théo’s Butterfly Run will take place on Saturday October 13, 2018 and will feature a 5 km walk/run and a 1 mile walk. The race is being hosted at Carleton University, and absolutely everyone is invited to take part! The race start will be staggered to accommodate those who want to run, or walk, and walk with strollers.

Last year’s Butterfly Run had around 500 participants and this year that number is expected to grow. It’s not surprising to see how this run appeals to so many families, for we all know someone who has been touched by miscarriage, infant loss and/or infertility.

Grieving parents will often take any opportunity to share the story of their child, and remember them in any positive light possible. It is with that view that I cannot wait to head up “Team Lachlan” when I run in October. I look forward to wearing a shirt with my son’s name on it, and see his big brother and sister get to run in memory of their beloved sibling.

Registration is now open. So please visit HERE to learn more about registration and how you can sign up! I would love to run (or slow jog..) with you.