Tampa Honors Families on National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

On October 15, families, caregivers, and health professionals gathered at AdventHealth Tampa for the poignant event titled Always in Our Hearts: A Pregnancy & Infant Loss Memorial Evening, aligning with the observance of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. This annual commemoration serves to honor those who have experienced the heart-wrenching loss of a pregnancy or infant, providing a space for collective healing and remembrance.

The evening commenced with a series of reflective prayers and rituals led by hospital chaplains, fostering an environment of solace and support. Among the speakers were Rebecca Vires, the Director of Women’s Health at AdventHealth Tampa, and Dr. Sh’nai Simmons, a licensed therapist and community advocate, both of whom shared their personal narratives of loss. Their presentations emphasized the importance of community in navigating the complexities of grief, illustrating that families are not alone in their sorrow.

“Coming together in shared grief reminds us that even in sorrow, love endures,” stated Chaplain Anthony Baffi, who played a vital role in organizing this impactful event. Baffi further highlighted the evening’s themes of remembrance and care, noting that “each light we lifted tonight represents a life that will always be remembered and a family that will always be cared for.”

Attendees were offered an opportunity to participate in a symbolic gesture of remembrance by writing their child’s name on a heart and attaching it to a designated “Tree of Light.” This interactive element not only personalized the experience but also fostered connections among families who share similar experiences of loss.

The culmination of the evening was a candlelight ceremony, which symbolized both remembrance and healing. As participants lit their candles, the flickering flames represented the enduring memories of lost children, creating a powerful visual of collective hope.

Events such as this one play a crucial role in providing support to families grieving the loss of a pregnancy or infant. They underscore the importance of community involvement in the grieving process and create an atmosphere where individuals can openly express their emotions. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, recognized annually across the United States, serves to raise awareness about this sensitive topic, providing an avenue for education and support.

As AdventHealth Tampa continues to offer emotional and spiritual care, initiatives like the Always in Our Hearts memorial evening reinforce the institution’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for grieving families. By facilitating moments of reflection and connection, health care providers not only honor the memories of lost children but also extend compassion to those navigating the path of grief.