Time for Remembering

Schedule

1:30 p.m. Doors open

2 p.m. Ceremony – guest speakers, responsive readings and special music

2:45 p.m. Reception – refreshments, memory making opportunities, and visiting with staff and other families

3:45 p.m. Planting of flowers

Parking

The West Garage is available for free parking and is within walking distance to the event. Enter from Children's Way between 24th Ave. South and 25th Ave. South, directly across the street from Blair School of Music.

About 300 people attend this event. Please arrive early. Allow 25 to 30 minutes to park and walk to the auditorium. There will be parking garage volunteers to escort you across the street.

Attire

You are welcome to wear what is most comfortable. Many families wear jeans, khakis, dresses, or even custom-printed t-shirts honoring their child.

The first half of the event will take place inside. The second half will be inside the lobby and outside at the Friends’ Garden.

Ceremony

The ceremony will be a special time of remembrance of your child, led by the chaplains at Monroe Carell. There will be guest speakers, special music, responsive readings and a quiet time of reflection.

Your children are welcome to stay in the auditorium with you during the ceremony. Staff members will be on hand should you need any assistance.

Reception and flower planting

We will serve light refreshments in the lobby immediately after the ceremony. Many families enjoy this time as way to reconnect with staff and other families.

After the reception, you and your family members are welcome to walk to the Friends’ Garden and plant a flower. Staff will be on hand for assistance and support. One flower will be provided to each family.

The doors to Blair School will close at 4 p.m.

Vanderbilt is a smoke-free environment. Smoking and vaping will not be allowed on campus or near the auditorium.

Contact us with any questions:
(615) 936-2558
family.frc@vumc.org

Is there a limit to the number of family members who can attend?

No, you may invite as many families and friends as you would like to join.

Can I connect with staff members at the hospital?

Some staff will attend the ceremony, and you will have the opportunity to connect with them. For staff that are unable to attend, we have provided an opportunity to send a note to any staff member in the virtual registration form.

Will I be able to visit the hospital after the ceremony?

To uphold the safety and privacy of our current patients and families, we ask that you not enter the hospital before, during or after the ceremony.

Our bereavement videos are here to help parents navigate their grief after the loss of a child. The bereavement videos were created by a bereaved parent, hospital staff and mental health professionals. We hope they illuminate the different ways we all grieve and provide a level of comfort to your family.