When I was in the hospital after Adrian’s death, the nurses provided a lot of things I don’t think I would have expected: things like footprints, and photos, and a beautiful memory box. They also spoke gently and seemed to know the “right” things to say. I found out later that the hospital staff had recently received training from a local bereavement organization* and that this organization had also provided the memory box.
When you’re in the midst of the trauma, it’s hard to think about the work that goes into these things; the time and effort of those who work to make this experience even slightly less horrible. Looking back now, though, I appreciate it. They helped to ensure the gentlest possible treatment and to provide physical memories that I still treasure.
Related: Adrian’s Birth Story
Related: Ways to Honor Your Child
To assist in their work, I created a new web page on the site specifically for charities and bereavement coordinators: Resources for Bereavement Coordinators.
This page contains links to all of the new printable handouts (including six new informational brochures added this month), as well as links to printable information and products provided by other organizations. Please share with anyone you know doing this work. I am also always taking suggestions for new resources to create or include.
Next up in my plans:
- Updating the Printable Greeting Cards section with some of the newer greeting card designs.
- Continue migrating the SGP Store from Etsy to our website.
- Getting ready for the Star Legacy Foundation-sponsored Perinatal Excellence Summit in June.
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* While I can’t track every local bereavement organization, I do keep a list of national and international ones, updated annually. Take a look here.
