Well, you learn something new every day. Today I learned* that today, October 15th, is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. I've also heard it referred to as Miscarriage Awareness Day.
So take today to be aware. Statistics say that 1 in 3 (or 1 in 4) pregnancies end in miscarriage. In many of these cases, the women didn't even know they were pregnant because the loss occurred so early in the pregnancy. However, no matter how far along a woman is when she finds out that she has miscarried or will miscarry, it is devastating. I don't think any one miscarriage counts more than another for any reason: length of pregnancy, whether a D&C was required, one that bleeds out or one that just disappears. They're all gut-wrenching (sometimes literally) and it takes time to heal, mentally, spiritually and emotionally as well as physically.
For those of you who have not experienced miscarriage—and I pray you never do—take a moment to think about it. Raise your awareness. Make a goal to be more open and sensitive to others. Let's take away any traces of stigmatization. Let's recognize that miscarriage is no less real and heartbreaking just because you didn't meet the baby. Stop to think twice before you speak.
For those of you who have miscarried, do the same. Be aware of others who may be hurting or who may need help understanding what you are going through. You are in my thoughts. I know it's not something you ever truly get over, although you do learn to adjust to it. Remember that you are by no means alone; you are not the only person to go through this.
Let's all do what we can to raise awareness of pregnancy loss. Awareness and recognition raise understanding, which is something we ALL could use more of.
Thank you, and bless you all.
*Yup, I've already learned my something new for today and it's only 1:00 a.m. I'm good to go for another 24-hour learning-free period. Go me!
