National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

 

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15th offers a day of remembrance to parents, family, and friends for pregnancy loss and infant death.

Pregnancy loss and infant death may include but are not limited to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, or the death of a newborn. Since 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss, many families know the grief of this kind of loss. It’s often not spoken about, and yet, those who mourn often need support and understanding. The experience is painful and sometimes overwhelming.

HOW TO OBSERVE #PregnancyAndInfantLossRemembranceDay

Communities and organizations across the country show support with candlelight vigils, walks, and other ceremonies. Visit nationalshare.org to find support and ways to support others with pregnancy and infant loss.

NATIONAL PREGNANCY AND INFANT LOSS REMEMBRANCE DAY HISTORY

On October 25, 1988, President Ronald Reagan designated October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. The Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness movement began.

In 2002, the October 15th Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Campaign began as an American movement.  Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak petitioned the federal government as well as the governors of each of the 50 states resulting in 20 signing proclamations recognizing October 15, 2002, as the first observance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day (PAILRD). The House of Representatives passed Concurrent Resolution H.Con>RES.222 on September 28, 2006, supporting the goals and ideals represented by the observance.

All 50 states yearly proclaim the day with eight states enacting permanent proclamations.  These states are Arkansas, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, Rhode Island, and South Dakota.