The loss of an infant is devastating. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day honors those lives lost to miscarriage, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, stillbirth, the death of a newborn, and more. On October 15, take the opportunity to reflect, honor, and come together over pregnancy and infant loss. If you have a loved one who has experienced this loss, take the time to give them the love and support needed to process and recover.
National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day - Tuesday, October 15, 2024
National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day timeline
- 2004
International Wave of Light began
The International Wave of Light encouraged those observing the day to light a candle at 7pm in order to create a wave of light across the world — and to honor pregnancy and infant loss.
- October 2002
National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day was established
Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak began the movement to bring awareness to pregnancy and infant loss across the nation.
- October 25, 1988
Presidential recognition
President Reagan marked October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.
3 Stars Who Have Suffered Miscarriages
Beyonce
Beyonce's HBO special "Life Is But A Dream" honors the baby lost in her miscarriage and talks about the difficulty of grieving and healing during this time.
Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union opened up about her struggle with miscarriages, revealing that she has had eight or nine and was in an almost-constant cycle of IVF for years trying to get pregnant.
Giuliana Rancic
Rancic spoke about her miscarriage in 2010, hoping to raise awareness about the issue and help women cope.
How to Observe National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day
Participate in a "Walk To Remember"
Various nonprofits host walks to honor and remember pregnancy loss and infant death. Proceeds are typically donated to advocacy and awareness groups.
Remember your baby
Take some time to honor your baby by planting a memorial tree, journaling, or picking out memorial jewelry. These activities can help as you go through the healing process.
Learn more about pregnancy and infant loss
Every year, about 90,000 infants die before the age of one, and at least 10 percent of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Knowing facts like these can help you understand the scope of this loss.
Why National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is Important
It allows parents to grieve in different ways
Many parents feel they have to grieve silently. This day provides parents with the space to come together and grieve openly about their loss — or to look for support from those to whom they may not normally turn.
It provides a caring touch
Talking about pregnancy and infant loss is a very emotional subject, so many choose not to say anything at all. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day helps those who have experienced loss to express their feelings about it, while teaching others how to be supportive.
It features a candlelight vigil around the world
National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day includes a candlelight vigil beginning at 7pm local time. It is observed in the U.S., Europe, and Africa.
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