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July proclamation recognizes bereaved parents
In a unique proclamation signing, bereaved parents gathered at the Office of the Governor’s conference room on Capital Hill yesterday to recognize the grief a parent endures with the untimely passing of their children.
Gov. Ralph DLG Torres proclaimed July as Bereaved Parents Awareness Month in the CNMI, describing the proclamation ceremony as the first of its kind.
Having lost a sibling, Torres said he could relate to those who unfortunately outlive their own children, as he himself has seen it with his own parents when he lost a sibling.
“Each one of us has different ways of letting go and appreciating what matters… We need to stay together, most especially at the time of need,” Torres said. “…I’ve seen it too with my family. Losing someone is never easy.”
The proclamation was a product of the efforts of We Remember Them CNMI, led by Tania Mendiola, Jill Derickson, and Donna Krum.
Derickson, who has lost her husband, her father, and her sister, said the proclamation is intended for parents who have lost their child.
“…It’s a very unique kind of loss,” said Derickson. “You don’t expect your child to [pass] before you do.”
The organization would be hosting a walk on July 26, called the “Walk to Remember,” in remembrance of children whose lives were taken too soon. Derickson noted that organization of the event is still underway, and that more information would be posted on their Facebook page at We Remember Them CNMI.
