September 2004

Surviving the Death of an Infant

Every death of a loved one is difficult to bear, but the death of a beloved, expected baby has a special sorrow. The family so joyously awaits the birth, and then without any warning the young life ends.

According to the New York State Center for Sudden Infant Death, the death of a baby can be a devastating experience for the family. When a baby dies, the future is affected, lives are forever changed and dreams are shattered. The pain is compounded by endless self-searching questions and feelings of helplessness, anger and guilt.

Since 1997, the New York State Center for Sudden Infant Death has offered statewide programs to help families cope with such an awful loss, and to educate the community about steps that can minimize sudden infant death:

* Information, support and guidance for parents and family members affected by a sudden and unexpected infant death including referral to bereavement support groups, home visits, contacts with other parents who have experienced this loss and other services.

* Education and consultation offered to public health nurses, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, funeral directors and other professionals. Topics include Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), infant mortality and interventions that can comfort bereaved families.

* Professional and community-based education about reducing the risk for SIDS and other causes of infant mortality.

Because funeral directors are often the first providers of support to parents who have lost an infant, they are in a unique position to refer families to the New York State Center for Sudden Infant Death. We recently published an article about the Center in the New York State Funeral Directors Association's newsletter, which is sent to its more than 750 member funeral service professionals.

To learn more about the Center and its programs and services, please call 1-800-336-7437. The First Candle/SIDS Alliance Website at "www.firstcandle.org" is also an excellent resource whether you are seeking information on ways to help your baby survive and thrive, or have experienced the death of a precious infant.