It was in October of last year after the loss of her second baby that Nikki Hogan messaged a friend and learned about a memorial walk that her friend’s town was organizing for pregnancy and infant loss.

Instead of traveling a few hours away to attend, Hogan thought about organizing an event like that in her own town of Galva. She messaged her mom, Teresa Costin, and right away, her mom jumped on board.

“She was already one step ahead of me. We started planning immediately after our conversation,” said Hogan.

Together, they started the “Walk for Angel Babies.” The event will be held on Oct. 7, 2023, a fitting time of year since October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

Hogan said that after posting about her loss online, she quickly learned she was not alone.

“I received many private messages from people saying that they had been through the same thing. I want people to know they are not alone and there are people out there that understand what you have been through and are willing to talk to you about it,” she said.

According to statistics from The National Institute of Health, it is estimated that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriages.

After deciding to plan the walk, Hogan said she thought it would be a great opportunity to also raise money for a local organization operated by wonderful people.

“The Rorie Mae Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps families that have gone through the same tragedies as us,” she said.

The website for the Rorie Mae Foundation states that the organization is a non-profit “that seeks to bring awareness to stillbirth and infant loss, provide financial support and emotional support to families who have experienced it, and harbor a safe community of healing for all those affected.”

As part of the planning, Hogan announced the walk on social media and set up an event page. What occurred after that was an outpouring of support that’s been overwhelming, she said.

“I had no idea how this would go over but it has been amazing. People are buying merchandise, offering help and getting the word out there about our event,” said Hogan.

Hogan and her mom aren’t alone in helping put the event together.

“There are several others that are already helping or will he helping the day of the event. We will thank them all publicly after the event because we sure want to include everyone.”

Hogan currently has no particular goal for the amount of funds she wishes to raise.

“Any funds we raise would be greatly appreciated. Next year, we may have to set a goal to raise more money than this year,” said Hogan.

The walk will be held at Veterans Park in Galva and a $25 donation per walker is being requested. The donation can be paid by the individual or through donations collected by the walkers.

“But if you can’t do either of those things and you want to walk, please come join us for the day,” said Hogan.

The “Walk for Angel Babies” starts at 2 pm and ends at 3 pm. Walkers are encouraged to walk as much or as little as they would like. A silent auction and 50/50 drawing will be held directly across the street at the Crescent City Tap and runs from 11 am to 6 pm.

The event can be found on Facebook by searching “Walk for Angel Babies.”

“I just want to encourage people to come walk with us. If you haven’t been through a loss personally then come show support for your family and friends,” said Hogan.

More information on The Rorie Mae Foundation can be found at their website, www.theroriemaefoundation.org.