LIGHT THE NIGHT: Event offers encouragement for parents of lost loved ones

SIKESTON -- An effort last year by a Sikeston couple to comfort their own heartache wound up helping others in the process -- so much so they've organized the event again this year.

Oct. 10 will mark two years since Kathy and Brian Lake lost their full-term, newborn son, Tyler Joseph, due to hypoplastic left heart syndrome.

"We did not know our child was sick," Kathy Lake said. "We were unaware of any complications.

Tyler lived for 26 hours, but his memory lives on with his parents and family, his mother said.

"Last year Tyler's first birthday was approaching, and we decided to release some lanterns and do a short program where we shared poems and stories," Lake said.

About 50 people turned out that night.

"That included our friends and family who came out and supported us and other loss families, or parents of children who were gone too soon," she said.

In all, 12 children were represented that night, Lake recalled, adding others had learned about the night by word of mouth.

This year's "Light the Night" will begin at 8 p.m. Thursday at Sikeston First Assembly of God Recreational Complex. The night will be dedicated to remembering Tyler and other children who died too soon, their lives and the impact they made on others.

"I hope that other families, moms, dads, grandparents--anyone who has lost a child will take time to come out and honor them," Lake said.

This year's program will be similar to last year's, Lake said.

"We have some poems, readings, a song, and we will read the children's names and release lanterns in their honor," Lake said.

Those who want to be a part of the celebration just need to show up that night, Lake said.

"Not only is it good to be a around other people, but there's something very therapeutic about hearing someone else say your child's name -- because they're not here everyday," Lake said. "So to hear their names said out load brings comfort to your soul -- that they did exist. They were here, and they did live."

For the complete story, see the Sunday edition of the Standard Democrat.

Want to attend?

What: "Light the Night"

When: 8 p.m. Oct. 9

Where: Sikeston First Assembly of God Recreational Complex

Details: The night is dedicated to remembering Tyler Joseph Lake, who died Oct. 10, 2012, and other children who died too soon, their lives and the impact they made on others. Lanterns will be released. Many will be provided but attendees may want to bring their own. Loss families are encouraged to bring pictures and mementos of their children. Everyone is welcome to attend.