October marks the week and month of Baby Loss Awareness, which according to brief research the ‘week’ commemoration started in the UK in 2002 through a collaboration between charities - spanning from the dates 9th to 15th of October. The Wave of Light being one of the major events that stemmed from this, is celebrated globally on the 15th, families light a candle all over the world and share videos and pictures on social media using #WaveofLight.
The month-long commemoration originated in the US in 1988 under Ronald Reagan’s Presidency. Awareness days are a great way to take pause and reflect. An opportunity for visibility, commemoration, understanding and knowledge. Acknowledging this common reality for many families as we know 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss. That is one too many families suffering in silence, if ever there is a moment for these families to feel held October is that time.
What to do during baby loss awareness?
As ever you are not obligated to do anything, especially as it can feel like the weight of the world.
However, if you are wondering what to expect, there are many thoughtful events that take place. Many charities hold walks, poem readings, blue and pink ribbon and light displays.
A great point of contact is your bereavement midwife or OB-GYN healthcare provider, they often have access to events that are happening near you. Some hospitals host remembrance days or may be in contact with places of worship that hold services. These services are quite nice to attend even if you’re not religious, just knowing everyone is coming together in thought and remembrance of their babies is in itself soothing.
You are free to engage in as many or as little of these as you want, there’s really no right or wrong. For some people BLAW/BLAM is fulfilling while for others it can be extremely overwhelming.
If health care providers are unaware of such events, Google is always our friend. Oftentimes people hold independent events on event brite (of course make sure they are legit). If sadly there is nothing going on locally, there are also many online events, webinars and workshops led by parents, charities or healthcare professionals.
Below you will find a helpful list of Online Baby Loss Awareness Events happening in 2024, some of these events happen every year others are happening just this year. I hope to keep adding to this list and encourage you to use the comment section to notify of any Baby Loss Awareness Events happening near you, both in person and online. Maila’s Present is based in the UK, however we welcome hearing about events across the world too.
Online Baby Loss Awareness Events
1st - 22nd Oct Remembering Our Babies Instagram lives series in conversations with families about their babies memories
Tommy’s In Memory Sky - A virtual sky where you can name a star after your babies
5th Oct Soothing Fundraiser Retreat In Aid of Baby Loss Awareness Week - Ellie's Gift
10th Oct Mothers of Angels host Heart to Heart
10th Oct Pregnancy, Baby Loss and Grief
10th Oct Pregnancy loss and the death of a baby - supporting parents and families - Child Bereavement UK
10th Oct Providing pregnancy and baby loss support in a community setting
11th Oct Miscarriage & Fertility at Work: How to support our affected colleagues
12th Oct Shattered Silence: Supporting Families Through Perinatal & Infant Loss
14th Oct Compassionate Sheffield - Baby Loss Awareness Workshop
15th Oct Wave of Light
28th Oct Providing pregnancy and baby loss support in a community setting