Honoring Memories & Celebrating Love: Carilion Children’s Memorial Service

More than 100 family members, friends, staff, and supporters gathered at Mill Mountain Park for the annual Carilion Children’s Memorial Service; a morning dedicated to remembrance, connection, and hope.

At the beginning of the service, butterflies were released by each family into the air as a symbol of enduring love, remembrance, and the lasting impact of the children we honor. As they fluttered and lingered around families throughout the morning, they served as a reminder that love continues long after a loved one dies and that the memories of these children remain woven into the hearts of all who knew them.

For many families, the service provided an opportunity to honor their child alongside others who understand the journey of earth-shattering grief. Families traveled from hours away to be part of this gathering, sharing stories, creating art, reflecting together, and hopefully, finding comfort in community.

As healthcare workers we know that while caring for children is a privilege, losing a patient leaves a lasting imprint on those of us who walked alongside them. The children remembered during this service are not forgotten by the physicians, nurses, child life specialists, therapists, chaplains, and staff who were honored to be part of their lives and stories. This gathering serves not only as a space for families to remember their children, but also as an opportunity for our healthcare team to honor the lives that continue to shape us and remind families that we remember, too.

A heartfelt thank you to all the staff and volunteers who helped make this meaningful event possible. Your compassion and dedication created a beautiful experience for families. We’d also like to extend special recognition to the members of our multidisciplinary planning team: Macy Ware (Children’s Miracle Network), Dr. Borowicz (Pediatric Hem/Onc & Pediatric Palliative Care), Lisa Linger and the Artists-in-Residence with the Dr. Robert L.A. Keeley Healing Arts Program, Sarah Kress (Child Life Specialist), Chaplain Keith Little, Sharon Parker (Clinical Program Manager for Carilion Hospice), and Patrick Randolph (Carilion Children’s Operations). We are grateful for your vision, dedication, and countless hours of planning that brought this event to life.

The Carilion Children’s Memorial Service is a beautiful example of interdisciplinary collaboration and Carilion’s commitment to caring for families beyond the walls of the hospital. Through remembrance, connection, and continued support, we strive to ensure that families know they are never alone. Together, we honor the children we have lost, celebrate the love they leave behind, and carry their memories forward.