NATIONAL DAYAWARENESS

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

On this day, we honor those lost too soon, providing a space for healing and remembrance.

OCT15

Thursday, October 15Every year on October 15

days to go

Roots: Established in 2002 by Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak.
Vibe: A mix of sorrow and hope for healing.
Also on Oct 15: International Shakeout Day · International Day of Rural Women · Fossil Day™
Hashtag: #NationalPregnancyAndInfantLossRemembranceDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Light a candle

Light a candle in quiet remembrance tonight.

WITH FRIENDS

Offer gentle support

Check in on a friend who has experienced loss.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share support resources

Post links to grief support groups and hotlines.

Plan ahead

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Thu, Oct 15this year

2027Fri, Oct 15

2028Sun, Oct 15

2029Mon, Oct 15

2030Tue, Oct 15

2031Wed, Oct 15

2032Fri, Oct 15

2033Sat, Oct 15

2034Sun, Oct 15

2035Mon, Oct 15

2036Wed, Oct 15

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Fast facts

Approximately 1In 4 pregnancies end in loss.

More than 20,000Babies die each year in the U.S.

The story

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed each year on October 15, offering a space for families to remember the pregnancies and infants they have lost. This observance was established in 2002 through a campaign by Robyn Bear, Lisa Brown, and Tammy Novak, recognizing the emotional and psychological toll of such losses. The day invites families and communities to come together, fostering understanding and support for those grieving.

Read the full story

The significance of this day extends beyond personal grief; it highlights a shared experience that affects many families. Approximately 1 in 4 pregnancies end in loss, and more than 20,000 infants die each year in the United States alone. These staggering statistics underscore the importance of open conversations about loss and the need for compassionate support systems. It is a reminder that families are not alone in their sorrow.

A powerful tradition associated with this day is the Wave of Light, where families light candles at 7 PM local time, creating a wave of light across time zones. This simple act serves as a poignant symbol of remembrance and unity, illuminating the shared experiences of loss. Many families also choose to share stories or photos on social media, fostering community support through the use of hashtags like #PregnancyLoss and #InfantLoss.

As we commemorate National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, it is essential to recognize the broader cultural context. Countries around the world, from Canada to the United Kingdom, also observe similar days dedicated to remembrance. These observances not only honor those lost but also call for greater awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by grieving families, ensuring no one has to navigate their grief alone.