Derived from Sanskrit, Vilomah means “against the natural order”. A profound word used to describe a parent who has lost a child. 

It’s a complicated concept wrapped up in a small but powerful word. It’s meaning embodies everything that happens when a parent loses a child. No-one expects their child to die before them. It should never happen, but unfortunately the familiarity of this grave loss is experienced by many. A loss that will change a parent’s identity and existence forever.

It goes against the natural order. 

For centuries, terms denoting various forms of loss have been woven into our language. Consider the term ‘Widow or Widower’, which has symbolised the loss of a spouse since the 14th century. However, when a parent loses a child there has been no widely recognised term that can be used to concisely explain their unimaginable grief. Not only is Vilomah a powerful word to honour those who have lost a child, it’s a way if commonly known to disclose their situation without complex and difficult conversations. 

So join us through the month of May for ‘Vilomay’ to help raise awareness of child loss, break the taboo and show support to bereaved parents everywhere.