#15babiesaday

Have you seen any photos or posts about #15babiesaday?
 
As part of Sands Awareness Month, Sands groups all over the United Kingdom have been taking part in a campaign to raise awareness of the fact that 15 babies die each day. That is 15 babies dying shortly before, during, or after labour. Fifteen babies - it is a huge number. That is fifteen families burying a child; fifteen parent's dreams and hopes shattered; fifteen people who never have the opportunity to feel the sun shine on their skin, to go for a walk in a forest, to have a hug with their Mummy or Daddy... I will stop there. It is heartbreaking.
 
Here in Fermanagh it was a family affair. Myself, the husband, and the two children (as well as Patrick, I am sure) went to a few locations in Enniskillen last Monday. We had a clothesline with us which had 15 babygros pegged to it (one to represent each baby lost that day and every day). We went to the Ardhowen Theatre, to Enniskillen Castle/Museum, and outside the Town Hall. We took a photo at each location and answered a few questions from people as well. It was a brilliant day and the sun came out as well which was a bonus.
 
I do not know if 'enjoy' is the correct word, but I do enjoy taking part in these events. It is for Patrick and because of him that I do these things. This had even more meaning because we did it as a family, with everyone there. Patrick is one of those babygros and it warms the heart to see Shay and Florence playing around them.
 
It has been a very successful campaign so far and I hope that it will continue to raise awareness. Mostly though, I hope that it helps to reduce the number of babies who die and the number of people who experience the devastation of baby loss.
 
We will be taking the babygros on a holiday in a few weeks. Look out for the photos. I do this for Patrick and all the other babies who never got to wear those outfits...