Melissa Mills-Dick (She/Her)
Bereaved Parent / Board Member
1) Describe briefly how you got involved with Empty Arms.
When my son Ellis died and was stillborn in 2016, Empty Arms was there for me and my husband from the first moments of horrifying shock through the whole journey of grief, subsequent miscarriage, pregnancy after loss, and finding our way as parents of a living child while remembering Ellis. Through support groups I got involved with organizing the first Syrup Stampede event in 2018 and have been volunteering for Empty Arms ever since.
2) What makes you most proud of the work we do/What do you like most about Empty Arms?
In addition to the personal impact that Empty Arms has had on my family and so many others, I am incredibly proud of the way this incredible grassroots organization responds to the needs of its community. From proudly offering support for families across the country who are going through termination for medical reasons after the right to abortion was overturned to taking a community-led approach to establishing Spanish language supports, Empty Arms has remarkable vision and tenacity.
3) Share a passion in your life and/or work outside of EABS.
I love literature and books! I read a lot and write when I can.
Melissa is located in Granby, MA.