BIDDEFORD — Every day in the U.S., 2000 women lose a child to pregnancy loss or infant death ”“ that’s 700,000 a year. One in 4 women experience a loss at some point in their lives.
Pregnancy and infant loss, or PAIL, is an uncomfortable and taboo subject for many in our society, leaving many victims feeling silenced and alone, supporters say. As a result, awareness, research, victim support services, and sensitivity training of medical providers are all chronically under-supported, they say, and the fundraiser Noah’s Walk addresses these concerns.
The purpose of the event is twofold. First, to raise money to support research, education and awareness efforts aimed at reducing the number of people who experience pregnancy and infant loss. Second, to honor all babies who have been lost and to give their families an opportunity to recognize them.
The event has two parts:
On Saturday, there will be a walk through downtown Biddeford and Saco to increase awareness and raise money for preventative research and bereavement resources. Registration begins at 10 a.m., at North Dam Mill, 2 Main St., Biddeford.
Prior to the walk, on Wednesday, a vigil will take place in remembrance of the babies who have been lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death to recognize International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day. The vigil will be held at 6:30 p.m., at Maine Medical Center, Portland.
There is no fee to register and walk, however donations are welcomed. All funds raised will go to First Candle, a national, nonprofit organization uniting parents, caregivers and researchers with government, business and community service groups to advance infant health and survival. With help from a national network of partner organizations, they are looking to increase public participation and support in the fight against stillbirth, sudden infant death syndrome, known as SIDS, and other causes of sudden unexpected infant death.
For additional information and updates, follow Noah’s Walk on Facebook and Twitter, or visit http://www.noahswalk.com.
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