Born from Loss, Rooted in Compassion: Why I Walk for Moonlit Memory Walk

September always feel like a month of reflection. The air is crisp, the days grow shorter, and for many of us, this season invites us to pause and remember those we love but can no longer hold.

For me, this month holds a special purpose. As The Grieving Grandma, I've made it my mission to walk alongside grieving hearts, to create safe spaces where grief can be spoken aloud, an to honour the memory of my grandson - the little boy who changed my life forever.

The Heart of My Mission

The Grieving Grandma was born from the deepest loss imaginable: the drowning death of my 15-month-old grandson. That day broke me open. I couldn't function. I couldn't imagine life continuing.

And yet, somehow, it did.

Over time, I found myself gathering the shattered pieces of my heart and asking, What now? I didn't want his life - or his death - to be just a tragedy. I wanted it to spark something good.

Today, my mission is simple but powerful:

• Normalize conversations about death and grief

• Provie education and resources for families walking through loss

• Create safe spaces where grief is honoured, not rushed

• Build a legacy for my grandson through advocacy and the Eric Elliott Memorial Scholarship Fund

Every conversation I have, every group I host, every post I share is rooted in that mission. And this October 7, that mission takes me to the Moonlit Memory Walk.

Why I Walk

The Moonlit Memory Walk, hosted by the Home Hospice Association, is more than just a fundraising event. It is a night set aside for remembrance - a time to walk under the quiet glow of the moon, carrying the names and memories of those we love.

I walk for Eric

I walk for every baby and child gone too soon

I walk for the grieving parents, grandparents, siblings, and the friends who need to know they are not alone.

But I also walk to raise awareness and funds so that grief care and hospice support can remain available to everyone, no matter their circumstances. Grief support should never be a privilege - it should be a right.

How You Can Be Part of This

This isn't just my walk - it's our walk. Here's how you can join me:

Join Me Virtually: Take a few moments on walk night to go for a stroll in memory of someone you love. Light a candle. Say their name.

Donate to Support Care: Every dollar raised goes toward providing compassionate care for those at the end of life and for families walking through grief.

Here is the link:

www.zeffy.com

Moonbeams and Angel Wings

Walk with Us and Celebrate the Legacy of our Little AngelsWhy We Walk: We walk to honour the memory of the children who left this world far too soon. Every step we take is in memory of their boundless energy, joyful spirit, and the love they brought into the lives of those who knew them. Though their time here was short, their light continues to shine through the memories and legacies they leave behind.This walk is also a tribute to the families who carry their loss with courage and love. In the face of unimaginable grief, many have chosen to create meaning and healing through action - transforming sorrow into support for others walking a similar path.Funds raised through this walk support the Eric Elliott Memorial Scholarship which helps train compassionate individuals through Home Hospice Association’s Infant and Pregnancy Loss Support Certificate. These trained professionals walk alongside families navigating miscarriage, still birth, or the death of a child, offering vital comfort and care when it’s needed most. Together we walk to remember, to support, and to make sure no family faces loss alone.Why It Matters: Some losses are so profound they defy understanding — until they touch our lives. We walk to honour our young ones and to ensure that families across Canada receive the compassionate care they deserve when facing pregnancy, infant or child loss. Join Us: Join Team Moonbeams & Angel Wings in honour of a child you’ve loved and lost. You can walk in person or take part Your Walk, Your Way — wherever and however you choose. Tell Their Story: Share memories, photos, and the reasons you’re walking.Honour Their Legacy: Invite friends and family to support your walk.Make a Difference: Help us reach our $100,000 goal to ensure compassionate end-of-life careAfter you register you will receive an email from Zeffy, click to set up your Dedication Page and make this walk truly meaningful.Why Fundraise?Every dollar you raise helps provide comfort, dignity, and support to the dying, their loved ones, and even their pets across Canada. Your Dedication Page becomes a living tribute—a way for friends and family to remember, contribute, and make a difference in your loved one’s name.

Share the Message: If you can't give, you can still make an impact by sharing this post, talking about the event, or simply checking in on a grieving friend.

Making Every Step Count

When I take those steps on October 7, I will be thinking of Eric, of your loved ones, and of the families who will one day need support they can't even yet imagine.

This walk is about love. It's about memory. It's about making sure no one has to grieve alone.

I'd be honoured if you'd join me - in person, virtually, or simply in spirit - as we make every step count for those we love.

Love & Hugs,

Tammy

For more information

www.homehospiceassociation.com

Home Hospice Association | what is end of life? | Canada

A Canadian Registered Charity with a focus on dignity, compassion, and culturally sensitive support, Home Hospice Association empowers communities to help people die wherever they call home.