Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Date in the current year: October 15, 2024

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan designated the month of October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. However, PAILRD was first observed much later. In 2002, it was held by 20 states. Since 2006, it has been proclaimed annually by all 50 states, with 8 states adopting permanent proclamation.

The Canadian PAILRD Campaign began in 2004, Australia joined the campaign for PAILRD in 2008. Contrary to popular belief, it is not an international observance. Most non-English speaking contributes do not recognize it.

This day focuses on raising public awareness about the problem of pregnancy loss and infant death, which includes miscarriage, stillbirth, sudden infant death syndrome, or the death of a newborn. Remembrance ceremonies and candlelight vigils are held in many cities. Many people participate in the International Wave of Light, lighting candles at 7:00 p.m. in their respective time zones. The candles are left burning for at least 1 hour.