On this day, in communities across America, expectant moms will feel their baby’s first kick; parents will listen joyfully to their newborn’s first cry; and families will celebrate their healthy baby’s first birthday.
Also on this day, 13 babies will die suddenly and unexpectedly (SIDS/SUID)); more than 70 new parents will have listened sadly to their stillborn baby’s silence; and countless lives will be lost to miscarriage and other causes of infant death.
October is SIDS, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month, and Ringgold County Parents as Teachers is teaming up with the nation’s leading organization dedicated to infant health and survival to help increase awareness about these tragic causes of infant death.
October 15 has been designated National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. On this day, in homes across our nation, families will light candles to celebrate the lives that have been lost, and will continue to be lost, until we reach our goal of a future where all babies survive and thrive. For more information, visit www.october15.com.
First Candle has established a 2012 Awareness Month Action Center on its website at www.firstcandle.org. Interested individuals can access information on ways they can help create awareness and/or show support for families and babies in their local community. Crisis counselors are also available 24/7 by calling, toll free, 1-800-221-7437.
First Candle is a leading national nonprofit dedicated to safe pregnancies and the survival of babies through the first years of life. With programs of research, education and advocacy, the organization is working to ensure that every baby is given the best possible chance to reach not only his or her first birthday, but many happy birthdays beyond. First Candle also provides compassionate grief support to all those affected by the death of a baby. For more information, to access grief support or to make a donation, please visit www.firstcandle.org or call 1.800.221.7437.