The Compassionate Friends Eastside Chapter will hold a Balloon Release ceremony on Aug. 14, 2008 at the Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, at 10021 N.E. 124th Street in Kirkland.

The event will start at 7 p.m. with a “build your own sundae” dessert bar, followed by a ceremony when balloons with notes attached are released in the outdoor lawn area. Sharing groups will follow the ceremony for those who wish to participate.

All grieving parents and families are invited to attend the ceremony to honor the children who have died too soon. For more information, contact Jane Peters at (425) 392-1351.

The Compassionate Friends is a self-help organization offering friendship, support and hope to families who have experienced the death of one or more of their children. The group’s mission is to reach out to bereaved parents and be of help to them in their grief journey.

The Eastside chapter of this national organization meets monthly on the second Thursday evening. Moms and Dads meetings are also held monthly as requested. Special events are held throughout the year, including a “Walk to Remember” in the summer and a World Wide Candle Lighting ceremony in December, as well as the annual Balloon Release ceremony.

Those needing help can call 425-325-0357 day or evening. You will receive a return call within 24 hours. More information on the organization can also be found at www.eastsidetcf.org.