MARYLAND LIGHTHOUSE CHAPTER

SARAH ERNST & KATIE BENDEN

Katie is a dedicated and compassionate leader who dedicates her efforts to honor the memory of her beloved son, Beau Christopher. With her experience as an executive assistant for the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for over 12 years, Katie possesses valuable skills in organization, communication, and problem-solving. Katie recognizes the immense importance of support and understands the unique challenges faced by individuals who have experienced the loss of a child. Through her compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment, Katie Benden serves as an advocate for those navigating the difficult journey of grief after losing a child. Her ability to empathize, combined with her professional experience, allows her to provide invaluable support to individuals who need it most. Katie is making a meaningful impact on the lives of others as she leads support groups and helps others find healing and strength along their own grief journeys.

Sarah’s journey has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, all of which has shaped her to being the compassionate and dedicated person she is today. She has endured four pregnancy losses, including her two children, Carson and Lily. Her personal experiences with fertility issues and severe postpartum complications, enable her to connect with other families who have gone through similar struggles, offering support and hope. In addition to her personal journey, her academic journey includes a master’s degree in cell and molecular biology, with over 12 years' experience in cancer research. Currently she is employed at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where she is deeply involved in prostate cancer research and clinical trials. With her personal and professional experience, Sarah is driven by the passion to help others and is known for her meticulous attention to detail. She is dedicated to making a positive impact of the lives of these families.

DONATE TO THE MARYLAND LIGHTHOUSE

The Beacon of Light walk of Maryland

October 13, 2024

4:30 pm- 6:30pm

11723 Eastern Ave

Middle River, MD 21220

Please purchase a ticket (register) for each person who would like to attend, before joining or creating a team. T-shirts are available at the time of ticket purchasing!

Reflections Grief & Wellness Care seeks to illuminate the path of hope and healing after loss. We want to let bereaved families know they are not alone.

After a profound loss, we are broken. Reflections seeks to take our broken parts and let the light of our children shine through in everything we do. This in essence creates a glow, a beacon of light, for other bereaved families to navigate their storm to find safety.

Please join us as we honor our children, in a unique but simple ceremony which includes:

An opportunity to decorate your paper lantern and then line the pathway of our walk with the light of our children guiding our way.
Opening ceremony, which includes reading of our childrens names, candle distribution and instructions for the walk. *Each team captain will recieve a personalized lantern, while each registered team member will recieve a battery operated candle for the walk. Note, extra lanterns can be purchased.

Support Groups

The Maryland Lighthouse Chapter is a beacon of warmth and support, offering a unique blend of virtual and in-person assistance to ensure that no one feels alone in their journey. Our dedicated facilitators are not only compassionate but also ready to walk beside you, guiding you through each step with heartfelt understanding. In this community, we all acknowledge and embrace the strength that comes from shared experiences, creating a space where you can find solace, connection, and genuine support. You are never alone; together, we illuminate the path from hope healing.

Support Group Interest Form

Reflections Butterfly Party of Maryland

🦋 In Gratitude 🦋

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who joined us at the butterfly memorial event in Maryland. Your presence and support mean the world to us as we honored all the children gone too soon. Despite the rain, we all came together in unity which is a powerful reminder of the strength within our community. The next day, each butterfly that took flight, carried with them, the names of our children and loved ones!

Thank you for being a part of this special day!