Published By:
Last Updated:
Each year, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15. (Image: Shutterstock)
This day offers parents, families and loved ones a chance to acknowledge their grief and reflect on the lives of the babies they have lost.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is an annual observance dedicated to honouring the memory of babies lost to miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death. This day offers parents, families and loved ones a chance to acknowledge their grief and reflect on the lives of the babies they have lost. The day is also meant to raise awareness about the emotional and mental challenges faced by those impacted by pregnancy and infant loss, fostering support and understanding within communities.
When is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day 2024?
Each year, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15. In 2024, it falls on a Tuesday. It offers an opportunity for individuals, families and communities to come together to honour and support those who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day: History
The day was established in the United States in 2002 thanks to the efforts of Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown and Tammy Novak, each of whom had experienced the devastating loss of a baby. They aimed to create a day of remembrance and raise awareness of the issue. Over time, this observance received recognition through bipartisan congressional resolutions and has now grown into an international event.
Since it was first observed, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day has been a source of comfort and solidarity, providing a space for people to share their grief and honour the lives of their lost babies.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day: Significance
The significance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day lies in its ability to provide dedicated time for families and individuals to remember the babies they have lost. It acknowledges the profound grief that accompanies miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal death, helping to break the silence surrounding these often unspoken tragedies.
By raising awareness, it encourages open conversations about the emotional and psychological struggles faced by those who have endured such losses. This day also plays a crucial role in fostering community support, compassion, and understanding, helping grieving parents feel less isolated in their pain.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day 2024: How to get involved
There are various meaningful ways to participate in Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, providing comfort to those who have experienced such a loss while helping to spread awareness:
- Light a candleOn October 15, at 7 pm local time, light a candle in remembrance of the babies lost and place it somewhere visible.
- Participate in moments of silenceJoin in moments of reflection and silence, taking a quiet moment to honour the babies who have passed.
- Share your storyFor those who have experienced pregnancy or infant loss, sharing their personal story can offer support and comfort to others going through a similar journey.
- Attend supportive eventsTake part in memorial services, local events, or online gatherings focusing on pregnancy and infant loss awareness.
- Offer compassionReach out to friends or loved ones who have experienced a loss, letting them know you are there to listen and provide emotional support.
- Support grief counselling servicesDonate or contribute to organisations that offer grief counselling and support to families and individuals affected by pregnancy and infant loss.
The act of coming together to reflect and remember offers healing while also advocating for better support systems for those affected by pregnancy and infant loss.
