Parent of a Heart Angel

Whether your loss happened recently or many years ago, the HeartKids support team is here for you.

All children and young people who are born with or acquire a heart disease in childhood are celebrated by HeartKids, including those that die. Each week, four children or young people pass away from their heart disease or associated conditions. We call them ‘Heart Angels’.

Many parents, siblings and families speak of feelings of sadness and loneliness after losing their Heart Angel. Our message to people who have experienced this loss is simple: You do not need to travel this road alone.

At HeartKids we have over 40 years of experience in supporting people through grief and the emotions and challenges that come with it. Our commitment is to provide you and your family members with support when it is necessary and when you request it. If we are unable to assist you with something directly, we can refer you to supportive organisations and specialists.

We recognise that everyone will walk their journey of grief and loss on a unique path. HeartKids is a guide in the days, weeks, months and years following the loss of your child. Whether your loss happened recently or many years ago, we are here to support you.

How we can help you

Someone to talk to

If you just want to know there is someone you can call on from time to time, who will listen without judgment or getting overwhelmed, the HeartKids support team is here for you. Our support team includes several Heart Angel parents who have experienced the loss of a child. 

A member of our team can meet with you face-to-face at our offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Alice Springs, Darwin or Sydney, or via a video call.

Professional mental health support

There are lots of options out there if you need some support. Our team can assist you and your family to access professional mental health services or grief and loss programs in your area.

Specialist grief support

Sands provides support, information and education to anyone affected by the death of a baby before, during or shortly after birth.

Their volunteers provide peer-to-peer support services for bereaved parents around the clock through a national support line, email, live chat and local face-to-face support groups. Sands also provides information resources on grief and loss.

Visit the Sands website for more information.

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Support groups

Sometimes the only people who can know what you're going through are people who have been through something similar themselves. We hold state-based meetings and get-togethers for bereaved parents. These groups are an opportunity to connect with others, share experiences and talk about ways to cope.

HeartKids Peers as Mentors Program

Heart Angel peer mentors are trained parents and volunteers who have shared grief and loss experiences. Our support team can match you with a peer mentor for additional support.