Angel Families supports the Fraser Coast locals

ALICIA Thomas suffered a parent’s worst nightmare. She received a phone call in February 2021 that would change her life forever.

She was told her 16 year old son Jayden was in a motorcycle accident that would prove to be fatal. Such a loss is never prepared for by any parent and Alicia’s world would never be the same.

Nearly 18 months later, Alicia saw another parent experience a similar loss and wanted to help in some way.

“Part of the reason for creative a support group for parents who have lost a child was because the pain I could see in their eyes and understanding how they feel”, says Alicia.

With the support by charity Rally With A Cause, Angel Families was formed in leading the way to support families through their journey of child loss.

Angel Families is an informal community where people can support each other through the difficult times they face. It is a group of people who have experienced the death of a child that tragically lost their life before their 21st birthday could be celebrated and share their feelings openly.

“All too often families harbour their feelings to protect others because they do not want to burden anyone else with the darkness and sadness of reality. It is a lonely truth that no one knows the extraordinary emotions of a bereaved parent unless they too have experienced loss,” says Alicia.

Angel Families peer support model consists of bringing people together in groups where they participate in activities to promote discussion, learning and exploration.

The group creates a safe environment for families to remember and share their grief story and develop a sense of possibility and hopefulness for the future.

For more information, the group can be found on Facebook or by contacting Alicia on 0447 492 857 or angelfamiliesfrasercoast@rallyforacause.org.au to find out more.