Remembering Edward (Ned) Abel Jones

Tragically in late 2019 Anne and Henry’s second child, a little boy called Ned, was stillborn at full term.

In an effort to cope withtheir immense grief, and to come together as a family, they started doing a bike ride every Sunday morning. Henry, who had never shown much interest in cycling before, came up with the idea and bought a bike with a seat for Greta. Anne dusted off her old bike and they have spent their Sunday mornings since then exploring the cycling trails in their area, often stopping for a coffee or at a playground along the way. In the early months, they often had to drag ourselves out of bed and get on our bikes, but have come to treasure the weekly rides.

To mark Ned’s one year anniversary, and what should have been his first birthday, they wanted to gather their family and friends together for a larger version of the usual Sunday morning bike ride. Unfortunately COVID-19 has meant large gatherings are not possible in Melbourne, so the original plans of a bike ride followed by a sausage sizzle at the Markham Reserve Playground have had to be put on hold this year.

However, Anne and Henry will still be doing our weekly ride and would love it if you could join them in spirit. Wherever you are, on Sunday 25 October 2020 you might go for a little bike ride (or walk, or run!) in honour of  baby Ned. If you’re happy to, please email photos of your ride/walk for us to add to the Photos page.

Learn more about Ned’s ride here, or donate directly to Ned’s Ride 2020.