Mum launches memorial jewellery to help other families
SOMETIMES words aren’t enough to describe the emotional agony of losing a child and the grief that follows seems like a never-ending corridor that has to be retraced time and time again but a Salford Priors’ mum hopes her loss will ultimately help others cope with their journey of devastation.
December will never quite be the same for Laura Hibbard, aged 41, and her husband, James, because even though the Christmas spirit was all around, they were consumed with sorrow in that month of 2020 when they lost their daughter, Pip, who was just 21 hours old.
“Pip had major heart complications. She fought so hard to stay with us but it was during her second heart surgery that her poor little heart could no longer cope and she passed away. We are forever thankful for our short time with her but wish it could have been so much longer,” Laura told the Herald.
Then there is the silent grief that rages inside, and it seems to last forever.
“There is not a day that goes past that we do not think about Pip and our lives will never quite be the same again. Leaving the hospital with your arms empty apart from a memory box is unimaginable and it was then that I knew I wanted to create something special and personalised for other parents, that they can hold close to their hearts, providing special memories and strength when it is needed the most,” said Laura.
She admits it was a “horrendous position” to be in for both of them and their families and while the memory box is “fantastic” Laura started thinking along the lines of creating something else to further cherish the memory and love of a lost child.
“In January 2022 I started doing evening courses and some short courses in silver smithing and jewellery which then developed into making memorial jewellery. I was inspired to create beautifully designed jewellery for parents in similar situations to ours and to help break the taboo surrounding baby loss,” Laura said.
From there the idea grew and eventually Laura founded her own business which she called Snowdrop Keepsakes which specialises in hand and footprint charms and jewellery to be placed into memory boxes.
“We suffered our own tragedy when we lost Pip and I hope the jewellery will honour other babies and I know I can help other parents who have experienced baby loss. From our heartbreak, I was inspired to create beautifully designed jewellery to support others,” said Laura.
James and Laura now have two children. Bertie, aged six, and Margot, 13 months. James plays rugby in Alcester which is why Alcester RFC is the venue for a Snowdrop Keepsakes launch night fundraiser. The event takes place from 7.30pm to 11pm on 8th June. Laura hopes to eventually raise £10,000 for a CNC machine which will enable her to do the cutting and engraving for the memorial jewellery.
“Guests at the event can explore Snowdrop Keepsakes' collection of memorial and keepsake jewellery, including cremation ashes rings, breastmilk charm bracelets, and birthstone necklaces. Various fundraising activities will be available, including raffles, auctions, and donation stations, with all proceeds contributing to the cause. I’m also looking to link up with a baby or child loss charity to see if we can work together to provide for parents. It will be an emotional night and I’m going to make a speech but I’m determined to do it. It is amazing how someone so small can leave such a huge mark on our hearts. We love you Pip x” said Laura.
For more information email laura@snowdropkeepsakes.com or visit
www.snowdropkeepsakes.com
