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National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Honor the lives of lost babies and remember those affected by pregnancy and infant loss on National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

Thursday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEOctober 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15 is a special day to honor the lives of those lost due to pregnancy or infant loss. The origins of this day can be traced back to 1988 when President Ronald Reagan declared that October should be recognized as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. This special day serves as an opportunity for families who have experienced such losses, to come together in solidarity and remember their loved ones with love, respect, compassion, and hope.

TIMELINE

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Timeline

Infant Mortality Rates Recognized

The U.S government starts keeping record of infant mortality rates, increasing awareness on pregnancy and infant loss.

Grief Counseling Evolution

Grief counseling evolves to include pregnancy loss, recognizing the emotional toll on parents and families.

Reagan's Proclamation

President Ronald Reagan declares October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

Robyn Bear's Campaign

Robyn Bear with a group of six mothers starts a nationwide campaign for a day of remembrance.

Petition Success

The online petition began by Bear and her associates reaches over 20,000 signatures, leading to recognitions in all 50 states.

House Resolution 222

U.S. House of Representatives passes House Resolution 222, supporting goals and ideals of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

Light a candle

Lighting a candle is a simple yet meaningful way to remember the children and families who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. You can also light a virtual candle or set up a memorial page.

WRITE

Write a letter

Take some time to write a letter to your lost loved one. It doesn't have to be long – just enough to express your thoughts and feelings. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process grief.

PLANT

Plant something

Planting something in memory of your lost child, such as a tree, flower, or garden, can be healing and help you honor their life. The physical act of planting can also give you a sense of peace.

DONATE

Donate

Consider donating to an organization that supports parents who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss. Your donation will help provide much needed emotional and financial support.

GATHER

Gather with friends

Spend time with family and friends who understand what you are going through and can offer emotional support. Invite them over for dinner, go for a walk, or just sit down for coffee.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is Important

It promotes research on causes of pregnancy & infant loss

In order to better understand the causes of pregnancy and infant loss, more research must be done. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day can help bring attention to this important issue, encouraging organizations and individuals to allocate resources to supporting ongoing research efforts.

It brings awareness to an issue that affects many families

Pregnancy and infant loss is a heartbreaking experience that affects countless families each year. National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day helps raise awareness of this issue and allows bereaved families to commemorate the lives of their lost loved ones in a meaningful way.

It can provide comfort and support for grieving families

In addition to raising awareness, National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day gives families who have experienced loss the opportunity to honor the memory of their loved one. It also allows them to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, providing much needed emotional support and understanding.

Related holidays

National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month

Join us in raising awareness and supporting those affected by pregnancy and infant loss this month. Let's break the silence and honor these precious lives.

Baby Loss Awareness Week

Join us in raising awareness and honoring the lives of angel babies during Baby Loss Awareness Week. Let's support each other through this difficult journey.