LIVING THROUGH THE LOSS OF A CHILD

Lurenda Avery, a resident of Shelby County, Alabama, is used to seeing mountains in her backyard. But nothing could have prepared her for the uphill battle she faced in her household.

In May of 2006, Lurenda and her husband, Ben, were preparing for their first child, Olivia. Things were going well until 24 weeks into her pregnancy when she unexpectedly gave birth. Although little Olivia fought to stay alive for a week, she ultimately didn’t make it.

Anchored by unimaginable grief, the Averys struggled to find a path forward. They needed an outlet for their pain and anger. They needed a helping hand. They needed hope. They found it through The Amelia Center, a facility dedicated to supporting grieving children, families and parents.