Guest Author - Krissi Danielsson

It's that time of the year again. Did you know that October 15 is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day? The result of a grassroots movement started by Robyn Bear (www.october15th.com), October 15 is a day to set aside to remember the angels lost every year to pregnancy loss.

On September 28, 2006, House Concurrent Resolution 222 was passed in the House of Representatives supporting the goals and ideals of the idea of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Because so many of us suffer in silence (the common reference to pregnancy loss as "silent" loss), the naming of October 15 as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day should be a way to get the word out and let people know that miscarriage is not something to be swept under the carpet. Our babies should be honored, and women who are suffering should be supported.

More importantly, the day should also let women who are suffering know that they are not alone. Because few people talk about loss, so many who have had miscarriages wonder if they are weird or abnormal for feeling the way they do. People in your life may tell you to stop dwelling and get over it. But you should always know that it is okay to feel sad and to grieve for your baby. October 15 is a day that is for you.

At 7pm on October 15, no matter your time zone, the organizers of October 15 invite you to join in a candle lighting ceremony in honor of your angel(s) and all the other much wanted babies lost every year. Display the candle in your window. If you have friends and family who have experienced a loss, ask them to do the same.

Pregnancy loss shouldn't be a taboo topic. May this day help grieving mothers and families everywhere. I urge you to spread the word about this day. For more information and for more ideas about what to do on October 15, visit Robyn Bear's website linked above.