Many people hold special vigils or participate in the Wave of Light to honor the victims of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. Participants light a candle and leave it burning until 8 p.m. on the same night as the anniversary. As long as a candle is lit in memory of the child lost during pregnancy, the candlelight wave will go around the world, illuminating the night for 24 hours.
The event is a way to honor lost children and foster community support. Though there is no formal day for this purpose, many people choose not to talk about their losses or those of their loved ones. However, it is important to honor these young people’s memory and loss. It is a day for sharing your feelings and educating others. For example, some families hold candlelight vigils at 7 p.m. local time, while others host memorial services.
In addition to organizing walks and memorial services, individuals have worked with their representatives to pass legislation to make October 15 a national holiday for celebrating the lives of children who died during pregnancy. The United States has commemorated this day since March 20, 2021, while Canada and Australia have celebrated the event since last year. The United Kingdom also observes the event as part of Baby Loss Awareness Week.
One in four women will experience miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. Over 17 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. This tragedy causes great sorrow to the bereaved families. In addition, many parents feel isolated and alone in their grief, especially those trying to have another child.
