In honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month this October, I wanted to take a moment and discuss those families who have suffered through the loss of their child. You likely know someone who has lost a child (or maybe you, yourself, have), and you might be wondering what you can do to honor the life of their little one. Elizabeth Petrucelli, a local Bereavement Doula and author of It’s Not ‘JUST’ A Heavy Period, among other amazing pieces, wrote THIS blog with 11 wonderful ideas for honoring a friend’s baby this month.
I’d like to go another direction and talk about SUPPORT. Specifically, local and universal resources for anyone suffering or who have suffered a loss.
If you are currently suffering a miscarriage or stillbirth, or have been given a fatal diagnosis, I am so sorry. Please consider calling a bereavement doula to walk with you through your journey. There are 2 of us in the Colorado Springs area, myself and Christi Trimble, as well as a few up in Denver. Also, look into Stillbirthday University. You will find an abundance of resources and help.
Support after your loss is just as important as support during your loss. Here in Colorado Springs, we have a couple of resources you may find helpful.
Pikes Peak SHARE is a wonderful Facebook group for those who have endured a loss and they periodically have meet-ups.
Grief Share is another great option. They do online and email support and have in-person support groups all over so you can find the one that’s closest to you.
Postpartum Progress is a great resource for anyone suffering from Postpartum Depression.
The Birth Injury Justice Center is dedicated to supporting anyone who has been affected by birth injuries, brain injuries, cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, and other developmental disabilities.
Mesothelioma Hope’s blog “Asbestos Exposure and Ovarian Cancer” is a great resource for awareness on cancers caused by asbestos, such as ovarian cancer.
This is just a shortlist of resources to get you started on your journey through your loss. If you have not endured a loss, but know someone who has, please share this list with them. Please be mindful of those walking the path of grief this October and keep them in your hearts.
Are you aware of any Colorado pregnancy loss resources that I missed? Let us know in the comments.