Glen Island's 'Cherish' Sculpture Honors Parents Who Have Lost A Child
NEW ROCHELLE, NY — A new sculpture will offer a place of reflection and pay tribute to those who know uncommon loss.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer hosted a ceremony on Wednesday to dedicate the memorial art sculpture named “Cherish” to honor Westchester County residents who have lost a child. The event was held at the entrance to the beach at Glen Island Park.
“Cherish” was created by Peter Mitrione of Mitrione and Sons Ironworks and was donated to the county by Peter and his wife, Antoinette.
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The artist says he was inspired to create the sculpture after a dream he had about Antoinette Mitrione’s beloved late niece, Chrissy, who passed away in a fire at the age of 10.
Once the piece was completed, the Mitrione family thought it should be shared with the community and asked if it could be exhibited in one of the Westchester County Parks.
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The county says that “Cherish” will remain on display surrounded by a garden in front of the bathhouse and the entrance to the public beach.
“Losing a child is heartbreaking,” County Executive George Latimer said. “It leaves an overwhelming sense of emptiness and loss. The grief is intensified by the unfulfilled potential and experiences that the child will never have, leaving parents with a profound sense of sorrow and longing. Our parks are a sanctuary for our mental well-being, our physical health, and for the enjoyment of Westchester residents. ‘Cherish’ provides a special space for healing for parents, family and friends who have lost a child. They can come to Glen Island Park to reflect and appreciate the many wonderful memories made together.”
“The sculpture is lovely and in a gorgeous, tranquil location along Long Island Sound,” Kathleen O’Connor, Westchester County Parks Commissioner, said. “Everyone who sees it will be emotionally touched and appreciate its meaning. We would like to thank Peter and Antoinette Mitrione for their generous donation, contributing to the beautification of Glen Island Park and sharing this incredible piece of art with the community.”
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