Experiencing a miscarriage changed me in so many ways. I lived in a dark place for months, but didn’t feel strong enough to share my actual feelings. So I walked around with a smile on my face, but hurting on the inside. This type of grief is terrible, lonely…one that I don’t wish on anyone. It’s a cycle for sure, times of denial, anger, sadness, hopelessness — over and over again.
I’ve been there. And it’s a hard time to come out of. But it happens with time. However, not a day goes by that I don’t think of my angel babies. They would be nearing their 1st birthday.
Not many women share their pain or suffering. I know plenty of women who before opening up about my story, didn’t share their story with me. It’s something that just isn’t talked about much. But 1 in 4 pregnancies end in a miscarriage.
Fortunately, there is more awareness now than ever before. October 15th was named Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day and the month of October is recognized as the awareness month. Every year on this day, the Wave of Light takes place. This is something I only heard about a year ago, but I think everyone, whether you’ve gone through this or not, should be aware of this day.
This month recognizes the loss so many families experience around the world. It also helps inform and provide resources for parents who have lost a child due to a miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, still births, birth defects, SIDS, and other causes.
To create this Wave of Light — those who are grieving and those who are supporting those who are grieving — are invited to light a candle on October 15th from 7 pm to 8 pm, in ALL time zones, ALL over the world. Because of the time differences, the lighting of these candles creates a “wave of light” across the world. It’s a beautiful and touching tribute to the families who have suffered.
This small gesture offers light into the darkness accompanied by grief. It gives hope to families who are suffering that it’s possible to see.
“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 (ESV)
To those who have suffered a loss and are grieving — I am with you. Each life, no matter how short, 12 week pregnancy, 3 days, 9 months, 1 year — was meaningful and special.
I’m so thankful this awareness was created. If you can, I ask that you light a candle and say a quick prayer for those suffering…if you are unable to, a quick prayer would be very much appreciated.
I’d like to thank every one of you who knows our infertility journey and already prays for us or has prayed for you. I appreciate you guys more than you’ll ever know. Thank you!
1
