Friday, October 15, 2010

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Today is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. In 1988 President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

"When a child loses his parents he is called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn't a word to describe them. This month recognizes the loss so many parents experience across the United States and around the world. It is also meant to inform and provide resources for parents who have lost children due to miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, stillbirth, SIDS, and so many other causes."

Founders of www.october15.com chose a day in the middle of the month to honor and remember lost children. They ask everyone to light a candle tonight at 7:00 pm to reflect on the loss shared by so many parents and embrace the love and support of family and friends around them.

I have two sisters who have each lost a child, as well as many, many friends who have lost their own. Please take a moment to remember them in your thoughts today.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

thanks Deb, that is so sweet.....my candle is always lit for my Jamie....

Love
Janet

Katrina said...

I have nine children and was pregnant with #10 this spring...but we lost that little one to miscarriage at the 11th week. He or she was due on Christmas day. This was our first miscarriage, and our family took the loss very hard. I have many friends who have had miscarriages and I never could really relate to that pain -- until now. My heart goes out to all the mamas who have lost their babies, whether in pregnancy, infancy, early childhood, or at anytime. No mama should have to say good-bye to their child :(

Very sweet post. Thank you!