National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month in Canada: Honouring the Lives Lost and Supporting Families

October is recognized as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month in Canada, a time to support families who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant. This month is an opportunity to raise awareness, break the silence surrounding these tragedies, and provide a space for parents and families to grieve openly.

Despite its impact on many individuals, couples, and families, pregnancy and infant loss often remain hidden and difficult to talk about. However, in Ontario, there are events and resources available throughout the month to help individuals and families honour their losses and connect with supportive communities.

Understanding Pregnancy and Infant Loss

In Ontario, pregnancy and infant loss affects many families:

1. Miscarriages occur in about 1 in 5 known pregnancies, often within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

2. Stillbirth affects about 1 in 125 pregnancies in Canada, typically occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

3. Neonatal death refers to the loss of a newborn within the first 28 days of life.

4. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) can happen unexpectedly to otherwise healthy infants under the age of one.

For many families, such loss is accompanied by feelings of deep grief, isolation, and confusion. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month encourages open dialogue, understanding, and recognition of the emotional challenges these families face.

Ontario Events and Ways to Honour Pregnancy and Infant Loss

Throughout Ontario, many events are organized to help families remember the babies they’ve lost and to offer emotional support. Participating in these events can foster a sense of community and solidarity among grieving families.

1. Wave of Light – On October 15th, the International Wave of Light takes place in Canada, including in cities and towns throughout Ontario. Families and communities are invited to light candles at 7:00 PM to honour babies who have died too soon. This global initiative creates a chain of light to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with those who have experienced loss. You can participate by lighting a candle at home, or by joining virtual or in-person gatherings hosted by local organizations.

2. PAIL Network Events – The Pregnancy and Infant Loss (PAIL) Network of Ontario, part of the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, offers support services and resources for families affected by loss. PAIL Network often hosts walks, vigils, and memorial events during October. They also offer virtual peer support programs as well as individual support at no cost. Visit their website for details about virtual or in-person events in your area, such as remembrance ceremonies that allow families to come together, share stories, and honour their babies.

3. Pregnancy and Infant Loss (PAIL) Awareness Walks – Many cities in Ontario host awareness walks to honour lost infants. These walks provide an opportunity for families to grieve together, connect with others, and bring attention to the issue of pregnancy and infant loss. The walks are often accompanied by fundraisers to support local bereavement services. Check your city or town’s community event listings to see if a walk is being held near you.

4. Bridget’s Bunnies - Bridget's Bunnies supports individuals and families dealing with pregnancy and infant loss by offering Comfort Kits during times of crisis. They also provide grief resources through their "Little Loss Libraries" and host community events like Bridget's Run. The organization collaborates with healthcare providers and relies on donations, volunteers, and fundraisers to provide these services for free. The foundation was created in memory of Bridget, who was stillborn, and aims to ensure no one faces such a loss alone.

5. Memorial Gardens – Some communities in Ontario have created memorial gardens as peaceful spaces where families can reflect and honour their loss. For example, Toronto’s Butterfly Garden at Sunnybrook Hospital offers families a serene place to remember their babies. Visiting a memorial garden during Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month can offer quiet reflection and healing.

6. Bereavement Support Groups – In addition to events, many Ontario hospitals and organizations like Bereaved Families of Ontario (BFO) offer support groups for families affected by pregnancy and infant loss. These groups provide safe spaces to share experiences, seek emotional support, and receive guidance on how to cope with grief. BFO hosts events across Ontario, offering both virtual and in-person gatherings.

How You Can Support Families

If you or someone you know has experienced a pregnancy or infant loss, there are several ways to offer support:

1. Acknowledge the loss: A simple gesture of acknowledgment, such as sending a card or message, can provide comfort. Letting grieving families know they are not alone is an important first step.

2. Listen without judgment: Allowing parents to share their stories and express their grief can be incredibly healing.

3. Offer practical support: Many parents are overwhelmed with emotions and daily tasks after a loss. Offering to help with meals, chores, or childcare can provide relief during this difficult time.

4. Respect significant dates: Anniversaries, due dates, and other important dates may be especially painful. A kind note or small act of remembrance on these days can offer comfort.

Resources for Families in Ontario

Ontario offers several valuable resources for families experiencing pregnancy or infant loss:

1. PAIL Network (Pregnancy and Infant Loss Network): Provides peer support programs, online resources, and events. They also offer a 24/7 helpline for parents in crisis. Visit their website at www.pailnetwork.sunnybrook.ca.

2. Bereaved Families of Ontario (BFO): Offers support groups, events, and resources to help families cope with grief. Learn more at www.bereavedfamilies.net.

3. Wave of Light Ontario: Local organizations and communities throughout Ontario participate in the Wave of Light event, with many hosting virtual vigils or remembrance ceremonies.

Conclusion

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month in Ontario provides a vital opportunity to acknowledge the pain of families who have experienced these devastating losses. Whether through participation in events like the Wave of Light or reaching out to a grieving family, October is a time to offer support, raise awareness, and break the silence surrounding pregnancy and infant loss.

If you or someone you know is experiencing the pain of pregnancy or infant loss, remember that there are communities and resources available to help. Reach out, connect, and know that you are not alone.