Workshop
May 2-3, 2026
- Topic: Holding Both: Navigating Grief and Ambiguous Loss After Adoption
- Lead: Ashleigh Martinflatt
This full-day workshop is designed for birth parents and adoptees who have been impacted by adoption
and are seeking a supportive space to explore the complex and ongoing nature of grief and loss. Adoption
loss is often misunderstood, unlike death, it is an ambiguous loss where the child is physically absent but
psychologically present. This kind of loss can make healing feel uncertain and cyclical, with emotions
resurfacing over time and in different life stages.
Through guided reflection, storytelling, art-based activities, and gentle discussion, participants will
explore the layers of their experience — love and loss, grief and pride, connection and distance. Together,
we will identify ways to honor both the child’s place in their life and the continuing evolution of their
identity as a birth parent.
The day will focus on:
– Understanding grief and ambiguous loss in the adoption context
– Recognizing ongoing emotional connections and unresolved feelings
– Developing language and rituals for remembrance and healing
– Building supportive peer connections with other birth parents
– Creating personal strategies for self-compassion and emotional regulation
Participants will leave with a renewed sense of understanding, validation, and connection, recognizing
that grief after placement is not something to “get over,” but something to tend to with care, community,
and compassion.
Workshop Registration: Registration Form
Walk-in registrations Saturday: Call Marnie at 604-862-4434 to ensure space is available.
Early Registrations: Deadline is April 6, 2026 at 12:00 midnight for discounted Early Bird rate.
Space is limited – register now to avoid disappointment.
IMPORTANT: The hotel caterers require final numbers be confirmed by 12 noon on April 29, 2026.
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY MEALS ARE NOT INCLUDED FOR LATE OR WALK-
IN REGISTRATIONS, AFTER THIS DATE.
FMNFS Membership: Members enjoy the benefits of reduced workshop fees! JOIN NOW! PAY LESS!
Refund Policies: Refund requests must be received in writing prior to 12:00 midnight April 17, 2026. No
refunds will be given after this date. All refunds are subject to a $50 administration fee.
Workshop Location and Information
Workshop Location: Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre
36035 North Parallel Road, Abbotsford, BC V3G 2C6
Tel: 1 (604) 870-1050 Website: www.clarionabbotsford.com
Travelling there: By Air: To Vancouver International or preferably Abbotsford Airport.
By Public Transit: www.translink.ca for routes & times of buses. Buses are limited.
Please call or email Audrey Harrington at (cell) 604-816-0161, (email)
audreyhharrington@gmail.com if you need assistance with transportation.
By Car: Parking free.
Where to Stay: Clarion Hotel & Conference Centre – SPECIAL RATE* for our conference attendees:
Standard room: 1 King or 2 Queen beds – $180 + taxes per night
Rooms are based on double occupancy.
Additional adults up to a maximum of 4 are $10 per person per night.
Upgraded room categories are available for an additional cost.
Reservations must be made no later than April 1, 2026 to qualify for this rate.
Tel: 1 (604) 870-1050 or 1 (604) 870-1060
Email: CNA93@stayatchoice.com
Check-in time after 3:00 pm check-out time is 11:00 am.