Date
Wednesday
Oct
15

October 15

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Honor the lives of lost babies and remember those affected by pregnancy and infant loss on National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

Yearly Date
October 15
Type
Day
Category
Cause

Introduction

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15 is a special day to honor the lives of those lost due to pregnancy or infant loss. The origins of this day can be traced back to 1988 when President Ronald Reagan declared that October should be recognized as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This special day serves as an opportunity for families who have experienced such losses, to come together in solidarity and remember their loved ones with love, respect, compassion, and hope.

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Timeline

1912
Infant Mortality Rates Recognized
The U.S government starts keeping record of infant mortality rates, increasing awareness on pregnancy and infant loss.
1960
Grief Counseling Evolution
Grief counseling evolves to include pregnancy loss, recognizing the emotional toll on parents and families.
1988
Reagan's Proclamation
President Ronald Reagan declares October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.
2001
Robyn Bear's Campaign
Robyn Bear with a group of six mothers starts a nationwide campaign for a day of remembrance.
2002
Petition Success
The online petition began by Bear and her associates reaches over 20,000 signatures, leading to recognitions in all 50 states.
2006
House Resolution 222
U.S. House of Representatives passes House Resolution 222, supporting goals and ideals of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

How to Celebrate National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

1

Light a candle

Lighting a candle is a simple yet meaningful way to remember the children and families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. You can also light a virtual candle or set up a memorial page.

2

Write a letter

Take some time to write a letter to your lost loved one. It doesn't have to be long – just enough to express your thoughts and feelings. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process grief.

3

Plant something

Planting something in memory of your lost child, such as a tree, flower, or garden, can be healing and help you honor their life. The physical act of planting can also give you a sense of peace.

4

Donate

Consider donating to an organization that supports parents who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. Your donation will help provide much needed emotional and financial support.

5

Gather with friends

Spend time with family and friends who understand what you are going through and can offer emotional support. Invite them over for dinner, go for a walk, or just sit down for coffee.

Why National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is Important

A

It brings awareness to an issue that affects many families

Pregnancy and infant loss is a heartbreaking experience that affects countless families each year. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day helps raise awareness of this issue and allows bereaved families to commemorate the lives of their lost loved ones in a meaningful way.

B

It can provide comfort and support for grieving families

In addition to raising awareness, National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day gives families who have experienced loss the opportunity to honor the memory of their loved one. It also allows them to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, providing much needed emotional support and understanding.

C

It promotes research on causes of pregnancy & infant loss

In order to better understand the causes of pregnancy and infant loss, more research must be done. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day can help bring attention to this important issue, encouraging organizations and individuals to allocate resources to supporting ongoing research efforts.

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Oct 14
Saturday
2024
Oct 14
Monday
2025
Oct 14
Tuesday
2026
Oct 14
Wednesday
2027
Oct 14
Thursday