By Lori EhdeFor years, Joann O’Leary has been studying the role of attachment in parent-child relationships, and she believes that understanding that role is critical in helping parents and families heal from grief and loss.O’Leary, a parent-infant specialist, will be in Luverne Thursday and Friday, Jan. 19 and 20, for a conference with area professionals and to help local families who have experienced the loss of a child or an unexpected outcome during pregnancy.The daytime schedules will be geared toward local family educators, teachers, healthcare professionals, clergy and other professionals, who will gain insight on how to support families in their loss.Continuing education credits are available. Call Community Education, 283-4724, to register.Especially for parentsThe Thursday evening program is for parents and grandparents who have experienced the loss of a child or an unexpected outcome of a pregnancy, such as a special needs child, loss in a multi-fetal pregnancy or adoption.O’Leary said she looks forward to meeting families during that Thursday night session at the Blue Mound Banquet and Meeting Center."It will be a chance for people to come and talk about the losses in their families," O’Leary said. "People can explore and share ways they’ve moved forward – not moved on. I don’t believe we ever move on but most people do find some meaning in their losses, because you’re so changed by the experience."From 6 to 8 p.m. she’ll facilitate an open discussion about society’s messages concerning grief and loss and she’ll discuss the life-long role of parenting in the event of unexpected outcomes."It will be a chance to talk with a group of people with similar but different experiences and share recovery stories," O’Leary said. "It can be a very healing process."Parents and grandparents are welcome to attend. They don’t need to register and there’s no fee to attend.