Coping with miscarriage

Miscarriage is one of those topics that people run away from – it’s big, it’s hard, it’s sad, and it’s scary.

Miscarriage affects a huge number of people in this country, ending between 10-20% of the 60,000 pregnancies per year in New Zealand. As many as 30 women and their families are affected every single day.

Thanks to the efforts of two North Canterbury sisters, hundreds of New Zealanders who have suffered miscarriages are now being supported, with fundraising through an annual “Butterfly Run”.
Founded by Aleisha Black and Corrine Christian, Miscarriage Matters NZ (MMNZ) is the only charity of its kind making information about miscarriage easy to find, and in one thoughtfully collated place.

To date, the organisation has supported more than 5000 families who have experienced miscarriages. It sends out over 100 care packages each month across Christchurch, the West Coast, Timaru, Auckland (North Shore), and Wellington.

More regions are soon to join its cause. With knowledge, comes power, Corrine says. “Miscarriage Matters NZ is a place for women, their whānau, and their supporters to understand more about what miscarriage is and how to support it. “What we’ve found out as we’ve talked to more and more people is that just like a live birth, every miscarriage is quite different. Our website, resources, and care packages are there to accommodate that and make sure all women feel informed and supported.”

The Butterfly Fun Run is the charity’s annual opportunity for people to come together, remember, and run (or walk) 6km around The Groynes in Christchurch. People outside of Christchurch can purchase a virtual ticket and do their own 6km run or walk. “It gives people the chance to have a moment to think about a loss, whether it is from five or 50 years ago,” Aleisha adds.

MMNZ will be holding its 5th annual Butterfly Fun Run on Sunday 13 October.

Run or walk a fabulous 6km loop track at The Groynes, Christchurch for Baby Loss Awareness Week.

Tickets available now via Eventfinda