Robyn Preston MP acknowledges Naomi Smith and the Butterfly Kisses project
Channel: Robyn Preston, MP for Hawkesbury
Date: 2021-05-27

Ms ROBYN PRESTON (Hawkesbury) (18:46): I commend and thank Naomi Smith, president and founder of A Butterfly's Embrace, and her team for providing support to parents and families affected by the overlooked or underserved areas of pregnancy and infant loss. Naomi was motivated to start the organisation and assist others who have lost a baby after her own baby, Lucas, passed away on 9 April 2014 after having been born on 22 March 2014. She honours his memory by making a difference to the lives of parents who have also lost a little one. The loss of a baby or infant is traumatic, and is something a parent would never want to go through. It is vital that those who have suffered this experience are supported in any way possible. Naomi and her team of volunteers provide parents who have suffered a loss with resources and the details of organisations that can provide sorely needed assistance. They also help grieving parents and families to make connections with other bereaved parents.

I was honoured to join Naomi and her team for the launch of their Butterfly Kisses project, which is the brainchild of Naomi and involves the creation of a beautiful space neighbouring the Secret Garden and Nursery in Richmond on the Western Sydney University campus. It will become a place of contemplation and reflection for "angel parents" who have lived through the loss of their baby in pregnancy or infant loss. I commend the Secret Garden and Nursery for gifting this large space so that families can reflect and honour their little ones. I hope the space assists loved ones in dealing with their grief.

Naomi and her team also provide ideas on how families may create memories and keepsakes such as taking photos, asking the hospital for an ID or birth announcement card, other hospital items as well as time-sensitive ideas. The widespread support that Naomi and her team offer demonstrates their desire to assist bereaved parents. It is clear that Naomi and her team have the emotions and wellbeing of other parents at heart, which is why what they do is so touching and important. I extend my commendations and thanks to the board members and volunteers who assist Naomi in this important cause.

I particularly mention Secretary and Operations Manager Lisa Eaton, Treasurer and Communications Manager Juliet Williams, Social Media Coordinator Odette Farren and Event Coordinator Kelly Hayes, whom I met at a recent function. I also commend and thank all other supporters and volunteers who assist the organisation in any capacity. It is a very important cause and the effect of their support is immeasurable. I wish Naomi and her team of supporters and volunteers all the best. I have no doubt that they will continue to assist bereaved parents. I encourage any families who have lost a baby or infant to reach out to organisations that offer support, visit a GP or contact Lifeline Australia.

Mr KEVIN CONOLLY (Riverstone) (18:49): I thank the member for Hawkesbury for her private member's statement. I had the privilege of being with her at the recent function that she mentioned, along with the local Federal member and the mayor. It was truly moving to hear the speeches of two women and one father, who had all lost either infants or children who were stillborn. Just to be there and hear their stories was a truly challenging experience. I commend them for the good work they are doing to reach out to others going through the same experiences to make their life a little bit easier. I say: Well done to A Butterfly's Embrace.