Ripley mum helping ease loss of baby
IT'S a job not many would do for free, but the reward for helping families in need makes it all worthwhile for one South Ripley mum.
Mother of eight Amy Pene is the president of Angel Gowns Australia, a national not-for-profit charity specialising in providing gowns and garments made out of donated wedding dresses for babies gone too soon.
Mrs Pene started her journey with the charity a couple of years ago and said while it could sometimes be hard, she loved being able to give back at what was usually the lowest point in a person's life.
"The feedback we have received over the years is that people have been so grateful for making a hard time a lot easier," Mrs Pene said.
"Beforehand people were having to source these gowns in toy shops in an effort to find something small enough for their babies.
"This way it takes one less thing off their plate and knowing we've helped in some way- no amount of money can give you that feeling."
Angel Gowns Australia started in March 2014 after founder and NICU nurse Fiona Kirk heard about a similar group in the US and wanted to start something for Australian families.
Since then the charity had received provided close to 9,000 wedding dresses and provided almost 5000 garments free of charge to families who had lost a baby anywhere from 18 weeks gestation to three years old.
Angel Gowns Australia operates solely off the back of volunteers and will hold its annual Gala Dinner event in Brisbane in June.
Mrs Pene said they were always looking for more volunteers and people to donate money and tickets were still available for the event.
"Our volunteers are just amazing and we're always looking for people who can help in all kinds of areas," she said.
"Our dress collection is currently closed but will re-open again in October as part of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month."
The Angel Gowns Australia Annual Fundraiser 2018 will be held at Royal on the Park Brisbane on June 2 from 6-11pm.
Tickets cost $120 per adult or $1,100 for a table of 10.
To book visit: www.ticketebo.com.au/angelgownsaustralia or for more information about the charity, go to the website: https://www.angelgownsaustralia.org.au/.
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or loss of a child, please seek professional help and contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or SANDS on 1300 072 637. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.