LIVERPOOL — Like many events during the coronavirus pandemic, Hope Network’s annual spa day for mothers of special needs children was forced to take a hiatus. After two years, the 15th annual event was held April 6 to give extraordinary mothers an extraordinary day.
Based within Northside Church in Liverpool, Hope Network is a faith-based organization that offers support to families living with disabilities.
According to Gretchen Ziegler, a Baldwinsville resident who volunteers for Hope Network, the core group of women who lead Hope Network — Lori Sill, Lisa Wildrick, Janice Wyatt and Dawn Corso — have done their best to maintain a connection among the families they serve during the isolation of the pandemic.
“They’ve been trying to keep moms together as much as possible,” Ziegler said. “We’ve done some Zoom meetings.”
Some of these women — like Sill and Wildrick — know first-hand what it is like to have a disabled child.
“[Lori] throws herself into serving other moms,” Ziegler said. “They get it from the inside out, and yet they have the energy and compassion to give back.”
Hope Network has invited massage and cosmetology students from BOCES to pamper about 60 to 80 moms. Ziegler said the network sent out 100 invitations. Volunteers will make brunch, and there will be music and a prayer area for attendees to use if they wish.
Ziegler also expressed her admiration for the local businesses who have donated to the spa day. Among those businesses are Angry Garlic and Sweet Dream Candy Shoppe in Baldwinsville as well as Bagelicious and Café at 407 in Liverpool.
“To see these little businesses that are struggling through the pandemic generously giving — whether it’s a gift card or dinner at Angry Garlic — I’m just thrilled to be a part of it,” Ziegler said.
To learn more about Hope Network and how to get involved, contact Gretchen Ziegler at 315-663-6215.
