National Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness Day

A serene meadow scene with a colorful sunrise, featuring a pair of angel wings surrounded by delicate flowers, symbolizing love and remembrance.. — National pregnancy and infant loss awareness day illustration

Hey there! It's time to shed some light on National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. This day holds a special place in our hearts as we take a moment to remember and honor those little ones who left us too soon. Join us as we explore the history behind this day and raise awareness about an important topic.

When is Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness Day?

It's national pregnancy and infant loss awareness day on the 15th October.

A Day of Remembrance

On National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day, we stand together to acknowledge the pain and grief experienced by families who have lost a pregnancy or an infant. Recognized annually on October 15th, this day gives us an opportunity to remember and support those affected by one of life's most heart-wrenching tragedies.

The idea behind this day was conceived by Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak, three passionate women who suffered their own personal losses. Their aim was to make others aware of the emotional toll faced by grieving families and create an open dialogue about pregnancy and infant loss.

Since its inception, National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day has garnered increasing recognition and support. It has become a source of comfort for many who find solace in sharing their stories and connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences.

Raising Awareness in the Digital Age

In recent years, the internet has played a significant role in raising awareness for National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. Through social media campaigns and online platforms, individuals and organizations share their stories, provide resources, and offer support to those who have suffered such a loss.

Thanks to these efforts, more people are beginning to understand the impact of pregnancy and infant loss. They're learning how to be compassionate and offer support to friends, family, and loved ones who are going through unimaginable grief.

Did You Know?

Did you know that one common symbol associated with National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day is the pink and blue ribbon? It represents both the joy of pregnancy and the sadness of miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. By wearing or displaying this ribbon, individuals show their solidarity and support for those who have experienced such profound loss.

History behind the term 'Pregnancy And Infant Loss Awareness'

1988

Establishment of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

In the year 1988, Ronald Reagan, the then President of the United States, designated the month of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. As part of this awareness initiative, October 15th was deemed Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. This day serves as an opportunity for parents, families, and friends to honor the memory of babies lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, or sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

1988

The Beginning: Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the month of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This declaration aimed to raise awareness about the emotional pain experienced by families who have lost a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. While the specific term 'pregnancy and infant loss awareness' was not used in the proclamation, the establishment of the month set the stage for future recognition and understanding of this important issue.

1988

Creation of Remembrance Day

In 1988, the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness movement began with the creation of Remembrance Day. This day was established in the United States to honor and remember babies who have died during pregnancy or shortly after birth. It aimed to provide support to grieving families and raise awareness about the importance of acknowledging and remembering these losses.

1988

Creation of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

In the year 1988, President Ronald Reagan declared the month of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This important proclamation aimed to bring attention to the sorrow experienced by parents and families who have suffered the devastating loss of a pregnancy or infant. By designating a whole month to this cause, it provided an opportunity for increased awareness and support for those affected.

1988

Origins of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness

The term 'pregnancy and infant loss awareness' was first coined in 1988 to raise awareness about the emotional pain and grief experienced by individuals and families who have lost a pregnancy or an infant. This awareness campaign aimed to provide support, understanding, and resources to those who have suffered such a devastating loss.

2002

Recognition as National Observance

In 2002, the U.S. House of Representatives officially recognized October 15th as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. This designation marked a significant step in raising awareness on a national level. The resolution aimed to promote greater understanding and support for those who have experienced the death of a pregnancy or infant, encouraging compassionate dialogue and breaking the silence surrounding this topic.

2002

The Color Blue and Pink: Symbolizing Loss

In 2002, an organization called 'Share Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support' introduced the use of the color pink and blue to symbolize pregnancy and infant loss. Pink was chosen to represent girls, blue for boys, and together they served as a powerful visual reminder of the babies who are no longer with us. This color association helped create a sense of unity among those affected by loss and allowed them to show their support during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

October 25, 1988

First Observance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

The first official observance of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day took place on October 25, 1988. This day was designated as a time for parents, families, and friends to honor and remember the babies they have lost. It allowed individuals to share their stories, find solace, and create a supportive community.

2002

Foundation of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day originated in the year 2002, when a group of organizations came together to establish a specific day of remembrance for pregnancy loss and infant deaths. On October 15th, 2002, the first Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day was observed, globally, as a way to honor and remember the lives lost too soon. This day serves as a reminder to support bereaved families and raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of pregnancy and infant loss.

2002

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

In 2002, the United States House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This resolution aimed to raise awareness about the emotional impact of pregnancy and infant loss and emphasized the need for support for those affected by these tragic events. The month of October continues to be observed as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month in the United States.

October 15, 2002

Creating Awareness through National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

In 2002, President Ronald Reagan declared the month of October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This proclamation aimed to further raise awareness about the impact of pregnancy and infant loss on families and individuals. The month-long observance encouraged open discussions, support networks, and memorial events across the country.

2004

Baby Loss Awareness Week

Two years later, in 2004, the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness movement expanded with the establishment of Baby Loss Awareness Week in the United Kingdom. This week-long commemoration, held annually from October 9th to October 15th, involved various events and activities to raise awareness and offer support to families affected by pregnancy and infant loss. The movement gained traction worldwide, promoting dialogue and providing a platform for sharing experiences.

2003

Creation of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Symbols

During the year 2003, two symbols were introduced to represent pregnancy and infant loss awareness. The pink and blue awareness ribbons became widely recognized as symbols of support for individuals and families who have experienced the loss of a baby. These ribbons serve as a visual reminder of the challenges faced by those affected by pregnancy and infant loss and help to promote understanding and empathy within the community.

2003

Symbol for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness

In 2003, the pink and blue awareness ribbon became widely recognized as the symbol for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness. The color pink symbolizes the loss of a baby girl, while the color blue represents the loss of a baby boy. This symbolic ribbon helps raise visibility and serves as a way for individuals to show support and solidarity for those affected by pregnancy and infant loss.

2006

A Personalized Day: Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day was officially established on October 15, 2006. This day serves as a dedicated time for individuals and families to openly acknowledge and mourn the loss of their unborn or newborn children. People are encouraged to participate in various remembrance activities, such as lighting candles, attending memorial services, and sharing their stories. Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day has become an essential part of the overall awareness campaign.

2006

Growing Support and Remembrance Activities

In subsequent years, the support and remembrance activities surrounding Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness have grown significantly. Organizations, communities, and individuals organize events and initiatives to honor the lives lost and provide support to families. Candlelight vigils, remembrance walks, and online campaigns are just a few examples of the ways people come together to offer solace and understanding to those grieving the loss of a pregnancy or an infant.

Logo and Symbol of Remembrance

The Meaning behind the Pink and Blue

The color pink and blue have been traditionally associated with baby boys and girls respectively. In regards to pregnancy and infant loss, the pink and blue colors symbolize the connection and remembrance of the babies who were lost. The pink/blue ribbons, flowers, and candles serve as powerful symbols to express love, remembrance, and hope.

2006

International Wave of Light

In 2006, an impactful initiative called the International Wave of Light emerged as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity. This event, held each year on October 15th, encourages individuals, organizations, and communities around the world to light a candle at 7 PM in their respective time zones. The collective illumination forms a visual representation of love and remembrance for all the babies lost too soon.

October, 2007

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Ribbon: A Symbol of Support

To further symbolize the collective support and recognition for those affected by pregnancy and infant loss, a ribbon was introduced. The ribbon combines the colors pink and blue, representing the boys and girls who have been lost. Wearing this ribbon during the month of October or on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day demonstrates solidarity and empathy towards grieving individuals and families, while also helping to spread awareness about the realities of pregnancy and infant loss.

Awareness and Support Initiatives

Ongoing Awareness and Support Initiatives

Since the establishment of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day and Month, various organizations and communities have actively worked towards increasing awareness and support. Candlelight vigils, memorial events, educational campaigns, and online discussions have provided platforms for sharing stories, fostering solidarity, and advocating for improved resources and services for bereaved families. These initiatives aim to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations, and offer comfort during a difficult time.

2015

Global Expansion and Advocacy

Since 2015, the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness movement has continued to expand globally, reaching more individuals and communities. Non-profit organizations, support groups, and passionate advocates have played a pivotal role in advocating for greater awareness, improving bereavement care, and providing resources for individuals and families affected by these losses. The movement has grown stronger and more inclusive, ensuring that no one feels alone in their grief.