Imagine losing a child or having a friend who did. It would be a devastating experience for you and each member of your family.
In 2008, Abby and Cary Nicholas lost their infant sons, Braden and Brody. In 2009, Loni and Justin Hodge lost their infant daughter, Maddox Elise. Their pain was intense and overwhelming but from their sorrow they made something good happen. Their families organized the first Annual Baby Steps Memorial Run, with all proceeds benefiting The Amelia Center, a department of Children’s of Alabama. The first race amazingly brought in over 300 participants and raised $12,000. Each year, the race continues to grow and helps provide a special event for any family who has suffered a significant loss.
The Amelia Center, located in Birmingham, is now twenty-five years old. It offers individual grief counseling to parents and grandparents who have suffered the loss of a child and to children who have lost any family member. In addition, the center offers family and group therapy, and educational opportunities for professionals (teachers, clergy and first responders) all who work with grief-stricken individuals. All counseling services are free to the participants. Since its inception in 1997, the compassionate staff of The Amelia Center have brought hope and smiles and understanding to over 15,000 people who thought their lives were over. It is supported not only by Children’s but by the generous donations of community members. More information can be found at www.ameliacenter.org.
We are very excited to celebrate our 16th Annual Baby Steps Memorial Run this year and look forward to sharing this partnership with you! Each registration and donation will help support grieving children and families in our area. All proceeds from the Baby Steps Memorial Run benefit The Amelia Center!
