Recognizing Pregnancy and Infant Loss in Campbell County

GILLETTE, Wyo. - Oct. 15, 2024 - “When a child loses his parent, they are called an orphan. When a spouse loses her or his partner, they are called a widow or widower. When parents lose their child, there isn’t a word to describe them.” These were the words used by President Ronald Regan when he designated October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month in 1988. Nearly four decades later, there still isn’t a word for such a loss – and perhaps it is something beyond what words could ever describe.

October is a time to raise awareness and honor the youngest and most innocent taken too soon. While we often describe it as unimaginable, the reality is nearly a quarter of all women will lose a baby during pregnancy, delivery or infancy.  At Campbell County Health (CCH), we stand with the mothers and families who have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant, acknowledging the pain, courage, and resilience these families demonstrate each day.

“This is a month of remembrance for every family who has experienced the unthinkable,” said CCH Maternal-Child Manager Cass Hurley. "While no words can erase the pain, we want families to know they are not alone whether it is the Maternal-Child team, our chaplains, or our counselors.”

Earlier this year, Erica Kissack and the EK Jewelers team visited the Maternal-Child unit at CCH to make a heartfelt donation in recognition of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness. Soon after, Shay and Tyler Luraas provided another donation—a beautiful basket of comfort items—designed specifically to support parents going through loss. With these acts, we are reminded that healing is found not just in time, but in the love we give and receive along the way.

October 15 marks Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, a global day of reflection where people come together to remember and honor babies lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, or other complications. On this day, families across the world participate in a "Wave of Light" by lighting candles at 7:00 PM in their respective time zones. This small but powerful gesture creates a continuous wave of light that circles the globe.

As we observe Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Month, we remember that every loss leaves a mark, a child whose life—however brief—will never be forgotten. At CCH, we honor those memories, knowing that love and grief are forever intertwined. For those who carry the silent weight of loss, we offer our deepest compassion and our promise to stand with you. While they may no longer be in our arms, their tiny footprints will always be in our hearts and their light will continue to shine through the love we share and the care we provide to one another.  

About Campbell County Health (CCH): An affiliate of UCHealth, CCH includes an acute care community hospital in Gillette Wyoming; Campbell County Medical Group with nearly 20 clinics; The Legacy Living & Rehabilitation Center long-term care center and the Powder River Surgery Center. With around 80 providers, 1,200 total staff and over 20 specialties, CCH is committed to serving our community by providing a lifetime of care with dedication, skill and compassion.

###