By Jena Carr
The Geelong and Ocean Grove communities are being encouraged to get silly and help save little lives this Red Nose Day.
Red Nose Day is a national fundraiser on Friday, August 9, which aims to reduce sudden and unexpected infant deaths through education, research, and supporting grieving families.
Ocean Grove ambassador Amie Rohan said it was important to remember children lost at a young age and help people touched by that loss.
Ms Rohan lost her daughter Willow six years ago due to a neural tube defect called anencephaly, which is a physical disability where a baby is born without parts of their brain and skull.
“We were lucky enough to get five beautiful hours with our little angel, and she grew her wings five hours after birth,” she said.
“I’m passionate to share the rollercoaster that comes with grief because I’m living proof that you can do it. It is hard, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
“Don’t bottle it up and don’t be worried about the stigma associated with mental health struggles around losing a child. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help and there’s no right or wrong time.”
Red Nose Australia chief executive Keren Ludski lost her son Ben to sudden infant death syndrome and said Red Nose Day was a chance for people to support grieving families.
“Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare and it’s a nightmare you can never wake up from,” she said.
“Every cent raised by Red Nose Day will go towards research and education to save little lives, as well as support services for grieving families.”
Visit rednoseday.org.au for more information or to support Red Nose Day.
