A WOMAN whose baby daughter Leah was stillborn is planning a sunrise dip in Rosscarbery in her memory and she’s inviting others to join her.

The event will take place at the Warren Beach on Sunday September 28th at 7.30am in memory of babies lost through miscarriage or stillbirth.

Caroline Murphy of West Cork Eggs Ltd explained why she wanted to mark the anniversary of her daughter’s passing in this way.

She told The Southern Star: ‘Stillbirth and miscarriage is something that happens every day in Ireland but that can still be a taboo subject.  Miscarriage can happen in approximately 20%of pregnancies and still birth in less than one per cent.

‘I was in that less than one per cent. Without a doubt it was the most heart breaking and sad time in our lives. At its worst I wondered would I ever smile again or not have this physical ache for my child.’

Caroline has issued an open invitation to others to join her for the sea swim which will be followed by hot refreshments.

She said: ‘Grief is a very powerful emotion and I learned that you never get over losing someone, and the grief is like massive sack of heavy rocks in the beginning but over time you learn to carry it better until it is a small manageable pouch that you can carry easier.

‘In the 16 years since our daughter Leah was born sleeping, I have organised a remembrance event for her and other children born sleeping or lost in anyway to be remembered and to have their name spoken.

‘These babies are part of their family and are not forgotten. We will be doing a sunrise dip to remember our babies and to feel the love and support of this around us.

‘If you don’t want to dip there will be a hot drink and it is an amazing way to start the day. Please don’t be shy about coming, all are welcome.’