|
|
| 
 |
|
The death of a baby is a heartbreaking and unthinkable tragedy.
Nothing can take away the pain. But there are some things that can be done after a baby has died to acknowledge and honour them. There is help available to support those who are grieving the loss of their baby.Everyone reacts and grieves differently, and may need different support and help as they grieve the loss of this special little person.
If a baby dies in hospital the following people will support and help:Your midwife/nurseYour/your baby's doctorPersons from Pastoral CarePersons from Social WorkPsychologists
Some hospitals can provide: A Memory Book with baby's details, hand prints, photos etc.Memorial Boxes for the funeralMemory quilts and soft pouchesGowns for the baby
Hospitals can contact the Australian Community of Child Photographers (ACOCP).They can come in a short notice to take photographs of a baby who has died or is critically ill. The service is free of charge.
Nothing can take away the terrible pain of such a loss, but these are suggestions of things that may help after a baby has died:- Many people feel having a funeral for their baby is very important
- Talk to your midwife, doctor or GP to get all the information you need.
- Talk to, and ask for help from your family and friends
- Be very gentle with yourself, acknowledge your pain and look after yourself at this very sad time
- Create some keepsakes - photos, hand and footprints, keeping cards, ultrasound photos, clothes, writing a poem or making a gift for your baby
- Call the 24 hour telephone support lines
- Attend Grief counselling sessions
- Read information on grieving after the loss of a baby
- Attend Annual Memorial Services
- Creating a Memorial such as a special tree for your garden or ornament for your home
- Create your own Memory Rituals for special days
Contact Details for Community Bereavement Support Services:
SANDS (Victoria) www.sandsvic.org.au (03) 9899 0218
Bonnie Babes Foundation www.bbf.org.au 1300 266 643
Sids and Kids Victoria www.sidsandkids.org 1300 308 307
The Compassionate Friends (Victoria) www.compassionatefriendsvictoria.org.au(03) 9888 4944 or toll free for country Victoria/Tasmania 1800 641 091
The Stillbirth Foundation www.stillbirthfoundation.org.au
National Association for Loss and Grief (NALAG) www.nalagvic.org.au(03) 9650 3000 or toll free for country Victoria 1800 100 023
Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement Email:support@grief.org.au (03) 9265 2111
Oz Mums Of Surviving (ie twinless) Twinswww.ozmost.com.au
 |
|
