|
Minneapolis, MN. The Missing GRACE Organization, an international parent bereavement support organization, is proud to announce the 2nd annual GRACE Conference "On the Journey: Pregnancy, Infant Loss, Infertility & Adoption" to be held in Minneapolis, MN at First Covenant Church on March 26th and 27th, 2004. The "On the Journey" conferences are unique in that they offer training and support for professionals and bereaved parents, as well as offering a sibling-loss support program.
This year's conference offers "A Place for G.R.A.C.E - A place for people to Grieve, Restore, Arise, Commemorate and Educate." Friday evening in a symbolic ceremony, we will both honor the lives of babies who have died, with a candle lighting, and address the tender hearts of couples experiencing infertility. An inspiring evening including: music by Heart of the City Ministries, dream by Kirsten Frantzich and Clint Allen, dance by Betsy and Corey Mills, and powerful message delivered from nationally recognized speaker, Sherokee Ilse, author of Empty Arms. The event is created to bring new hope and strength for the journey ahead. Saturday attendees will be able to select from 17 different classes during the 4 breakout sessions and will have the opportunity to gather resources and support from the multitude of exhibitors including: MN adoption agencies, holistic health providers, bookstores, advocacy groups, and support groups. Childcare, up to 5 years, is offered Friday evening, and the GRACE Kids Program runs the full day on Saturday for children up to 14 years. GRACE Kids is a journey of support, learning, crafts, games, and music. Created by bereaved parents, licensed educators, and grief counselors with aspects that specifically address youth bereavement for those who have lost a sibling. Doctors, nurses and midwives are invited to participate in our medical track with CEU designed courses. "A Comprehensive Look at Umbilical Cord Accidents-Preventing Stillbirth" will be one of 3 presentations given by Dr. Jason Collins, OB/GYN, and Founder of the Pregnancy Institute. Dr. Bruce Campbell, from the Center for Reproductive Medicine, will present Infertility 101. Other speakers include: Jon and Sylvia Van Regenmorter, Directors of Stepping Stones and authors of Dear God Why Can't We Have A Baby and When the Cradle is Empty, Richard K. Olsen, President of the National Stillbirth Society, Mark Norman, Nutritionist, and Candy McVicar, Founder and Executive Director of the Missing GRACE Organization. Our silent auction opens for bidding Friday at 5pm and closes on Saturday at 3pm with items awarded at 5:30pm. Limited list of items include: vacation services, hotel nights, infertility diagnostic testing, and spa packages. All proceeds directly benefit the Missing GRACE Organization and it's programs. Partners in this conference include The Pregnancy Institute and the Center for Reproductive Medicine For more information Contact: Name: Candy McVicar, Executive Director and Founder of The Missing GRACE Organization Organization Name: The Missing GRACE Organization Phone Number: 763-497-0709 Email Address: mcvicar@mninter.net Web Address: www.MissingGRACE.org |