It was my fellow ginger friend and literary character, Anne of Green Gables, that first publicly proclaimed what so many of us feel deep inside. “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” It’s easy to enjoy this month with its changing of temperature (even though it’s a complete yo-yo effect where I live) and color of leaves. There’s a pumpkin on nearly every doorstep, and much fun to be had with a Fall festival or a football game every weekend. But what I have failed to mention is that October is also Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. Now, while I am a fan of celebrating any occasion, I also poke great fun of living in a society where we have “national holidays” for nearly every dessert, animal, and relationship (once again, thank you, social media!). But, the history behind this nationally-recognized month and the hearts and people that are recognized by it are worth noting.
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month began in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan when he said, “When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them. This month recognizes the loss so many parents experience across the United States and around the world. It is also meant to inform and provide resources for parents who have lost children due to miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, stillbirths, birth defects, SIDS, and other causes.” It’s a loss so difficult to comprehend until you’ve walked through it, and though so common still can feel so isolating.
What matters most though isn’t the history or the month itself, but the grieving parents who have and are walking through this loss and the babies we love and long for that are in Heaven. Since January, not a day has gone by that I don’t ache for our baby in Heaven. We adore you, little one, and I so look forward to joining you in the presence of Jesus one fine day.
May God bless anyone that has experienced the loss of a baby with a peace only He can provide.
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
2 Thessalonians 3:16