Observe Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day (also known as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day) on October 15 each year.
When is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day observed?
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day takes place during the month of October, during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.
Missing a Word
In October 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. He stated: “When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. If parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them. This month recognizes the loss experienced by so many parents across the United States and around the world. It also provides resources for families who have lost children due to miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, stillbirths, birth defects, SIDS, and other causes.”
Worldwide Wave of Light
In addition, one annual tradition that takes place each year is a worldwide Wave of Light. People light a candle at 7 p.m. in their own time zone. If someone in every time zone joins in, a wave of candle light stays lit for a 24-hour period on this special day.
If you know someone who has experienced the loss of a baby, use this day to reach out in a simple way. Let them know that their child is not forgotten. It can be hard to know what to say. Just let your friend know you are thinking of them through words or actions. Send a card, write an email, or offer a kind gesture of love.
In truth, these simple gestures can make big difference. Help make October 15 meaningful for those who observe Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. For example, light a candle, say a prayer, kiss your children, show gratitude for your life and the lives of those you love. Offer a pink and blue personalized awareness ribbon to remember a child. Engrave this pin with a child’s name, date or comforting message. Remember that everyone grieves differently, and tune into the best way to show genuine support and love. Showing compassion, on any level, helps to ease someone’s burden and pain. The gesture may be just what your friend needs to get through this difficult day.
Content: Molly Hickey Image: babble.com)
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