‘A GIFT OF WORDS’

Many people affected by the death of a baby find great comfort in the written word, whether it’s reading what others have written, or writing something personal to them.  To mark Sands’ June Awareness Month in 2014, we launched a poetry anthology, titled ‘A Gift of Words’.

Former Sands trustee and bereaved parent, Sheryl McMahon, is behind the project, and has spent many hours editing the book to ensure its tone and content appeal to as many people as possible.  Sheryl, whose daughter Alison Hannah died when she was just a day old, read through many submissions from parents and family members, and has worked tirelessly to produce the final book; a beautiful, hard-back publication which will bring comfort to many.

In an extract from her introduction, Sheryl explains her motivation for taking on the project.

“A few years ago, at a meeting in Sands Head Office in London, the then Sands Chief Executive, Neal Long, asked if I would be interested in editing a poetry anthology. Neal knew my love of the written word and his invitation felt a natural progression, an opportunity to give others a voice. I had no idea what a special journey I would be setting out on, but I knew it would be one I could travel.

A call for submissions went out and poems began arriving. Each time I opened an envelope, I was deeply humbled at the words the authors were sharing. Every envelope filled with so much love. I could not fail to be moved, as I witnessed these beautiful, meaningful offerings. As well as poems, there were personal letters, cards, photographs of beautiful babies, their faces now imprinted on my heart.

One very kind Mother sent me the most exquisite rose scented candle, its heady scent pervading the air as I lit it, each time I read new words.

Within some of the poems, I saw brief glimpses of my own personal experience and so I knew that this was going to be a very moving collection. The title came to me early on ... "A Gift of Words".

I have felt extremely privileged to edit these pages. Every contributor has shared such a personal part of their own private sorrow. The precious lives they speak of, symbolise how far and wide the ripples spread when a beloved baby dies. Above all, it is love that shines through each page. I could not thank everyone enough for entrusting me with their words, the heartfelt dedications to these precious babies. Herein lies their legacy.”

‘A Gift of Words’ is priced at £14.99. You can order your copy from the Sands Shop.