October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month. During this month the unique grief bereaved parents experience is recognized. In October, we come together to demonstrate support to the many families who have suffered such a tragic loss. This support is the keystone of the Iowa SIDS Foundation. Every month, every week, and every day, the Foundation works to provide emotional support to SIDS and SUID families. As a recognized 501c3 non-profit, the Iowa SIDS Foundation serves the entire state of Iowa.
What is SIDS and SUID?
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexpected death of an apparently healthy infant younger than one year that remains unexplained after an autopsy, a death scene investigation, and medical history review. SIDS can happen to any family, regardless of age, ethnicity, religion, or economic status.
Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) is a term used to describe any sudden and unexpected death, whether explained or unexplained (including SIDS) during infancy. SUID can have both known and unknown causes. (AAP, 2016).
It is important to know that at this time, SIDS cannot be predicted or 100% prevented. Research shows that by following safe sleep recommendations set by the American Academy of Pediatrics the risks of SIDS may be reduced and accidental sleep-related infant deaths can be prevented.
Safe Sleep
Remember the ABCs of safe sleep; baby should sleep Alone, on his/her Back, in a safety-approved crib free from blankets, bumpers, and other soft objects.
The Iowa SIDS Foundation specifically provides grief support services to parents, grandparents, children and childcare providers. These services include informational grief packets, support groups, bereavement peer contacts, and grief seminars. In recognition that education is key to prevention, the Iowa SIDS Foundation also provides safe sleep training presentations to parents, healthcare workers, community groups and childcare providers. The Foundation provides many safe sleep educational resources for FREE to Iowa families and professionals.
As a non-profit organization, the Iowa SIDS Foundation is funded by private donations, corporate contributions, and the annual Walk for the Future held in August. If you would like to make a 100% tax-deductible donation or access educational resources visit iowasids.org.
