The first Mother’s Day in 1907 was to honour a mother who had died.

This Mother's Day let's celebrate all mum's including the memories of those no longer with us. Few people are aware that the very first Mother's Day in 1907 was in honour of mother who had died.

“Say her name” is the advice of Motherless Daughters Australia (MDA) to all who are motherless no matter how long since her death, a small, but powerful way to acknowledge and celebrate your mum or to show support to someone that may be sad in the lead up to Mother’s Day. 

MDA Founders Danielle Snelling and Eloise Baker say that the organisation’s community of more than 25 thousand women love hearing or seeing their mum’s name. “Saying a mum’s name not only validates that she lived but gives a person an opportunity to share a memory and celebrate her, it really is that simple. “Said Ms Baker. “Saying nothing to someone whose mum has died can add to their feelings of isolation on a day that so many are celebrating,” said Ms Snelling. “And please don’t say “She’s in a better place,” that brings no comfort.”

Suggestions on what to say or text include:

• “Today must be a really difficult, hard and sad day for you, I’m here if you need to chat or escape the day for a while.”
• “Thinking of you today. If you’d like to, I would love to hear about your mum – anything at all. Send me your favourite photo of her, too!”
• “Hey, just wanted to let you know I’m thinking of you. I know today is a hard day for you and that you’re not alone.”

The organisation’s Mother’s Halo Cyclamen initiative is a beautiful way to honour ALL mums and the unique bond she has with her child, no matter your age or stage. The vibrant cyclamen is an ancient symbol of devotion and ever- lasting love.

Purchase one to remember a mum or give a Mother's Halo knowing you'll be supporting someone missing theirs. 20 cents from every plant with the Mother’s Halo label will be donated to Motherless Daughters Australia.

Available online at Gardens Express – and selected retail outlets

For more information including factsheets and resources on how to manage grief, visit www.motherlessdaughters.com.au

Media enquiries: Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690 | [email protected]
Danielle Snelling and Community members available for interview

NEW TV Campaign also available