Emily, Spreading HOPE for Banks

Ambassador Emily Palmer, Fundraising in memory of banks

“After losing my daughter, Banks, at 36 weeks, I was so shattered and hopeless but was able to get connected to RTZ, and it became a guiding light for me through my darkest time. To be honest, I never specifically planned on "fundraising" for RTZ or the loss community; it happened organically. My community of friends and family saw the impact RTZ had on me and my healing journey, and people just started asking me if they could donate to RTZ in Banks' name. I was, and continue to be, honored that my daughter's legacy continues to help this amazing organization that provides resources to other parents who are facing the unimaginable.”

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 Emily’s fundraiser in honor of Banks. 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.

Shianne Gundersen