Caitlin, Spreading HOPE for Penelope Librada Cruz
Ambassador Caitlin, fundraising in memory of Penelope Librada cruz
“At 7 1/2 months pregnant, we learned that our baby had no amniotic fluid and was considered nonviable. We searched relentlessly for a hospital that would support us in bringing our baby into the world against all odds. Fortunately, we found help, but during our baby's treatment, there were some care mistakes, given her underlying condition of ARPKD. Tragically, we lost her when she was just three months and five days old. This devastating loss has profoundly impacted our lives, and we will forever cherish and mourn our baby girl, Penelope. We were fortunate to discover a supportive group of women of color who helped me through my early loss, providing a sense of community and validation for our emotions. I hope to raise awareness about the incredible support this group has provided me. I'm deeply grateful and will continue to share my baby's story and her name because she will always be a part of us.”
Pregnancy and infant loss is an unique type of loss, leaving the grievers to feel isolated and unsure of how to move forward. We'd be grateful if you you would consider making a contribution to Caitlin’s fundraiser in honor of Penelope Librada Cruz. Your gift ensures that other parents who endure loss on their journey to parenthood have the support, resources, and community they need in order to navigate life after loss.
With your support, here’s what we were able to accomplish during 2022 (2022 Annual Report):
Fifty percent of support group participants received financial support to ensure that all parents have access to services.
Enhanced outreach to and created support services for Black, Indigenous, and other Communities of Color as a response to the alarming rate of preterm births and stillbirths caused by racial disparities in perinatal and infant health.
Offered 50 different support group programs (virtual workshops, virtual support groups, and in-person retreats) to our community of bereaved families.
Supplied our unique perinatal bereavement guides to 400 hospitals and providers to assist in caring for grieving families.
Hosted 10 perinatal bereavement education webinars to parents and providers.
Created community and spread awareness about pregnancy and infant loss through social media.