More than 35 people participated in the 2nd Annual Angel Baby Fun Run on Saturday, October 10, 2026, taking to Broadway Street to honor babies who died during pregnancy or infancy. The event, hosted by Hearts & Halos: Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness, continued with Halo Fest at Miller Quarters Park, bringing families and supporters together for remembrance, fellowship, and community activities.
Hosted by Hearts & Halos: Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness, the event began with a fun run in front of the Minden Civic Center before moving to Miller Quarters Park for a community festival featuring vendors, games, music, raffles, and remembrance activities.
Founders Neisa and Jonathan Murray said the turnout and community support exceeded their expectations, with families and supporters gathering at the park throughout the day.
“My husband Jonathan and I are still trying to find the words to express how grateful we are for the love and support shown during our 2nd Annual Angel Baby Fun Run & Halo Fest on Saturday, October 10th,” Neisa Murray said.
For the Murrays, who founded Hearts & Halos following their own experiences with pregnancy and infant loss, the annual event carries a deeply personal meaning.
“As the founders of Hearts & Halos: Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness, this event means so much more to us than simply bringing people together for a day of activities. It’s personal. It’s a reflection of our own journey, the babies we’ve lost, the families we’ve connected with, and the hope we want to continue sharing with others,” Murray said.
Among the runners were Ashley and Todd Buffington and Melissa Wood of Minden Christ Fit. Todd Buffington carried a cross during the run as an expression of his Christian faith.
One of the day’s highlights was the distribution of 14 Healing Bags and Canvases to families who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss. The items are prepared to provide remembrance opportunities, encouragement, and resources for those navigating grief.
Another significant moment came during a bubble release at Miller Quarters Park, where families and supporters gathered to remember babies gone too soon.
Murray said seeing loved ones come alongside grieving families was particularly meaningful.
“What touched us just as much was seeing the family members and friends who came specifically to support someone who had experienced a loss. Pregnancy and infant loss can be incredibly isolating, and seeing families surrounded by that kind of love and support reminded us why these spaces are so important,” she said.
The festival also provided opportunities for families to learn about additional resources. Cajun Cyster of NWLA Inc. distributed gift bags promoting awareness of polycystic ovary syndrome, while Caring Cradle supplied educational materials and giveaways. Caring Cradle provides resources designed to give families experiencing infant loss additional time with their babies.
Local businesses and organizations contributed to the day’s activities through sponsorships, donations, and volunteer assistance.
HOPE sponsors included Chris Broussard, Purvèy Minden, FlipFlop Resale, Geaux Fresh Bistro & Bakery, Minden City Councilman Michael Roy, and It’s Sew Monica. The Webster Parish Convention & Visitors Commission also supported the event.
The Minden Police Department, under Chief Jared McIver and Deputy Chief Tokia Whiting-Harrison, assisted with traffic control, barricades, and participant safety. The Minden Police Association donated bottled water and ice.
Volunteers included members of the Minden Youth Challenge Program, Minden Junior Service League, Hearts & Halos board member Beverly Hulbin, and numerous community supporters.
Mayor Nick Cox and City Council members Michael Roy and Buddy Myles were among the local officials who attended.
Halo Fest featured local vendors, carnival-style games, and music provided by DJ Derrick. A Halos of Hope raffle offered prizes donated by The Villas at Spanish Court, Queendom Dance Fitness, Jazy Bodies Cardio Dance Fitness, and Holiday Lanes. K Kreations provided the medals and lanyards for the race.
Murray also thanked Minden Medical Center and Susan Dandridge for donating supplies for the bubble release, along with the many businesses and individuals who contributed materials, services, and financial support.
As Hearts & Halos continues to grow, the Murrays plan to expand their outreach through Healing Bags and Canvases, educational resources, and additional opportunities for families to connect.
“We wanted to show that moving forward doesn’t mean leaving our babies behind. It means continuing to live, love, find joy, and create beautiful memories while carrying their love with us,” Murray said.
The organization encourages families affected by pregnancy or infant loss, as well as those wishing to support them, to follow Hearts & Halos: Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness on Facebook for information about future activities and available resources.
