PICTURES: Reflections on baby loss at inaugural event for Tree of Tranquility in Thurso
Many of the great and the good turned up at a poignant event in Thurso where a sculpted tree was at centre stage as a symbol for grieving parents.
There was a mix of solemn reflection as passages were read by trustees of the Vilomah baby loss charity that included Ellie Lamont (chair), Andrew Mackay (vice chair) and Struan Mackie (trustee). Moving ballads were performed and the music punctuated the various readings and ended with a release of butterflies.
Tracey Ann McGeachin and Christine Hoggett, co-founders of Vilomah, said in a joint statement: "We are dedicated to bring a memorial Tree of Tranquility to honour all the babies that have died before, during or after birth to Caithness.”
The tree is life-sized with copper elements and sculpted leaves have been attached by grieving parents with baby names, a date of birth and the chance to write a final farewell message. It is sited at Lady Thurso Gardens, in the town's Rose Street, which aptly acted as a garden of remembrance following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Highland Council accepted the planning proposal for the sculpture last year and Thurso Community Council agreed to coordinate the planning and assist with the project on behalf of Vilomah. The charity was set up last year to support bereaved families in Caithness and North Sutherland.
Tracey Ann said: “Alongside our trustees – Ellie Lamont, Andrew MacKay, Struan Mackie and Chris Parkinson – we are dedicated to raising awareness about baby loss and providing non-judgmental support to anyone affected by the loss of a baby, whether it happened before, during, or after birth.
“Vilomah aims to offer support to not only newly bereaved parents and families but also those who sadly lost their babies years ago with little or no recognition. The term ‘Vilomah’ is derived from Sanskrit, meaning ‘against natural order’ and can also refer to a bereaved parent.
“Vilomah is dedicated to assisting families in creating cherished memories and providing them with beautiful ways to honour and remember their baby, both in the present and for years to come. We understand the importance of preserving the memory of a lost baby and offer support in finding meaningful ways to commemorate their precious life.”
She said that the charity aims to bring comfort and solace to families during their healing journey and ensure that their baby’s memory remains “cherished and treasured”.
The event included music, poetry and readings followed by a symbolic release of butterflies.
A copper leaf on the Tree of Tranquility sculpture in the gardens can be purchased from the Vilomah website or facebook page and engraved with a baby’s name or a message. The leaf will be added to the tree at regular intervals throughout the year. It is important to note that the leaf will oxidise and change colour over time to be in keeping with a natural tree.
The charity states that £25,000 was raised towards the creation and fitting of the tree along with a special bench in the gardens.
The Caithness charity thanked all who helped with financing the project and siting the tree and bench.
Tracey Ann said on behalf of Vilomah: “Lastly, we would like to thank the families who have attended our events over the years and the community for its continued support and believing in us. We couldn’t have done it without you all.”
