Laois to mark International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

MATERNITY staff at Portlaoise hospital are to take part in a ceremony to mark International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

The multi-denominational service of remembrance for bereaved families who have experienced a pregnancy loss, stillbirth or an infant death which will take place on Friday 10 October at 6pm at Saint Peter and St Paul’s Church, Portlaoise.

The event will also be available online at www.portlaoiseparish.ie 

 October is recognised internationally as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Bereaved families, the community and healthcare professionals come together to reflect, remember and raise awareness of the devastating impact of miscarriage or an infant death and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of support, awareness and education in addressing pregnancy and infant loss.

The Director of Midwifery at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise Ita Kinsella said: “We warmly welcome all grieving parents, families and friends who have been affected by pregnancy or infant loss to attend this service, to honour and remember the babies who have died and to offer support to bereaved families. The service will include reflections, poetry, readings and music and will be followed by tea and refreshments in the Parish Centre."

On Wednesday 15 October, International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day will culminate in the #WaveofLight, a significant event where organisations around the world light candles at 7pm to honour the memory of babies who have died.

“In solidarity, said Ms Kinsella, Portlaoise Hospital, “will be lighting up as part of this continuous wave of light around the world in honour of babies who have died through miscarriage, stillbirth or in the neonatal period, to create a sense of global connection for grieving parents and families.”