For many, every month is pregnancy and infant loss awareness month as they remember and grieve their children every day. But, October is a special month set aside for pregnancy and infant loss awareness. Pregnancy and infant loss is a unique type of grief that is different for everyone and it affects far more women and families than most realize. In fact, an estimated 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss.
For those of us who have experienced infertility, a miscarriage, missed miscarriage, adoption loss or the death of an infant, we are a part of this “club”. A club we never signed up for and never imagined we would join. Our loss and grief can feel like a lonely place as we navigate a world and future completely different from what we planned or imagined. We carry varying levels of grief with us each day and tend to keep much of it to ourselves out of fear, discomfort or the feeling that others just won’t understand. But, we are not alone. There are many others, just like us.
As a friend or family member, you may find yourself unsure of what to do or say and as a result, you keep quiet. In reality, sometimes you don’t have to say anything at all – sometimes all you need to do is let them know that you are there if and when they need someone to listen. Remember their loss and let them know that you remember – a simple text on the birthday of their little one can mean so much! Let them know that you haven’t forgotten and that their sweet baby will always be remembered.
So, in honor of those who are grieving and their children who have passed, we invite you to light a candle each day for the rest of October in remembrance.