You have probably arrived at this page because you, or someone you care about, has just experienced the death of a baby. We are sorry for your loss and want to help provide and locate resources to assist your family at this time.
The resources listed below are best used from the time you discover the baby has died until the time comes to say your final goodbye. They are provided by trained professionals or peers who have also experienced the stillbirth of their own baby and been trained to assist you at this time. Please call them as soon as possible so they can assist you.
Loss Doulas:
info@LossDoulasInternational.org 816-830-9572 or 816-457-6930
One very important resource is having support and guidance as you prepare for your baby’s birth. For this reason 1st Breath suggest Loss Doulas International to make birth planning and companioning available to families in need when their child is to be born still, miscarried, or has a condition that is incompatible with life and likely will not live long after birth. Loss doulas assist parents and their support system from the time you learn of the diagnosis, through birth,and planning of the memorial/funeral service. Certified or In Training Loss Doulas across the USA may be located at the website www.LossDoulasInternational.com.
1st Breath:
www.1stBreath.org
1st Breath works with parents who are experiencing the stillbirth of their baby from the time they learn the baby has died throughout their grief journey. Iit is important to have an advocate who understands what you are feeling and knows what your rights are. 1st Breath volunteers who have experienced the stillbirth of their own child have been trained to provide compassionate peer support from the time of diagnosis, through birth, making memories, and saying a final goodbye.
Other parents serve in many areas and will help you in locating additional resources and support, as well as share your grief journey in the months to come.
Heavens Gain:
www.HeavensGain.org
Heaven's Gain provides beautiful baby caskets and Infant urns that respect the dignity of the baby with quality workmanship, individual touches, and personalization. Memorial gifts and comforting books are also available.
Heaven's Gain was highlighted on the Jim and Joy Show. Heavens Gain Interview
Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NILMDTS):
http://www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org/locate_photographer/
NILMDTS introduces remembrance photography to parents suffering the loss of a baby with the free gift of professional portraiture. Images serve as an important step in the family's healing process by honoring a child's legacy. NILMDTS photographers are specially trained to come to the hospital or location of your choice and work with stillborn babies and their families.
Remembrance Photography is a very important step in the grief process. Photographs are one of the most precious and tangible mementos that a parent can have, showing the love and bond that was given and shared with their baby. These portraits will last for generations, and will honor and remember a tiny life that is forever loved and cherished. Every living being instinctually knows how to grieve. It is learning how to heal, that some need help with. Offering gentle and beautiful photography services in a compassionate and sensitive manner is the heart of the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation.
Hotline:
This service is supported by First Candle to parents and medical professionals dealing with the stilbirth of a baby.
Billingual crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-221-7437.