California Families Mark International Wave of Light
Participants across Southern California gathered on October 15 to honor children lost during pregnancy or infancy.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Civic
Communities in La Jolla Shores, Temecula, and Victorville held candlelight vigils to provide support for families navigating the loss of a child. The events were marked by participants lighting candles at 7 p.m. to remember those who passed away.
Why it matters
These gatherings offer a space for collective mourning and community support for families grieving pregnancy, infant, or child loss. The observances emphasize public acknowledgment of these experiences alongside private remembrance.
The La Jolla Shores event marked its 17th annual occurrence, while nearly 200 people attended the gathering at that specific site.
The players
The Comfort Cub
This nonprofit organization provides weighted therapeutic bears to families who have suffered the loss of a child.
Empty Cradle
This support organization offers resources and community connection for parents who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss.
Marcella Johnson
A grieving parent who has marked the loss of her son George for 27 years.
The details
Attendees at the events decorated luminaries with the names of children and arranged them into a heart-shaped display. The gatherings were supported by nonprofits The Comfort Cub and Empty Cradle to assist grieving families.
Timeline
The International Wave of Light occurred on October 15, 2026.
Participants lit candles at 7 p.m. local time.
Marcella Johnson lost her son George in April 1999, 27 years ago.
Industry Dynamics
These annual vigils reflect a broader shift toward publicizing grief support previously confined to private spheres. This movement aligns with Pregnancy, Infant and Child Loss Awareness Day to bridge the gap between individual mourning and community solidarity.
Families seeking support for bereavement can access resources provided by local nonprofits like The Comfort Cub and Empty Cradle. These organizations facilitate community connection for those impacted by the loss of a pregnancy, infant, or child.
The takeaway
Grief after the loss of a child often benefits from shared community experiences that validate personal stories. Participants can continue to seek support from established local nonprofits that specialize in pediatric bereavement long after the candle-lighting events conclude.
Further reading
Learn more about local community commemorations in the California Civic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSWB 5/69.
