Baptist Health Hardin to host remembrance service for babies lost during pregnancy and infancy
ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. (Oct. 7, 2026) – October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the profound grief experienced by families who have lost a baby. The loss of a baby, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or another cause during infancy, can result in profound grief that often goes unseen by others. While family and friends may not always know how to respond, parents and loved ones frequently carry the emotional impact for a lifetime.
To honor these precious lives and support those who grieve them, Baptist Health Hardin will host its annual Infant Loss Remembrance Ceremony. The ceremony will be held on Thursday, Oct. 15, from 5:30–6:30 p.m. at The Searle Pavilion at Freeman Lake, 240 Freeman Lake Drive, Elizabethtown.
The free ceremony is open to the public, and no registration is required.
The event will offer a peaceful opportunity for families, friends and community members to remember these lives lost, while acknowledging that every loss, regardless of when it occurred or how long ago, deserves to be recognized.
The ceremony will include live music, a candlelight remembrance and an opportunity for families to connect and share.
Loss during pregnancy or after birth affects more families than many people realize, with thousands of families experiencing the loss of a baby each year due to SIDS, congenital conditions, prematurity or other medical complications.
The emotional effects can be far-reaching. Parents and loved ones may experience grief, anxiety, depression, guilt, anger or isolation. Significant dates such as due dates, birthdays and holidays often renew feelings of loss. While each person's grief journey is unique, compassionate support and opportunities to remember can play an important role in healing.
"The loss of a baby can feel incredibly isolating because others may not fully understand the depth of that grief," said Michelle Estes, RN, MSN, director of obstetrics at Baptist Health Hardin. "This ceremony offers a safe and compassionate place to remember, honor and acknowledge every child's life while providing support and connection. No one should have to grieve alone."
Community members who have experienced the loss of a baby – as well as friends, relatives and caregivers, are welcome to attend.
Contact Carol Black for more information at [email protected] or call the Family Support Nurse Line at 270.706.1464.