Sanford Hospital Offered Keepsakes for Infant Loss Awareness

Nurses in Fargo provide handprints and footprints to support families observing Infant Loss Awareness Month this October.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Babies

Sanford Hospital Offered Keepsakes for Infant Loss Awareness

During Infant Loss Awareness Month, staff at Sanford Hospital in Fargo provide grieving parents with physical memorial keepsakes including handprints and footprints. This ongoing service aims to support families through the recognition of a month dedicated to infant loss.

Why it matters

The initiative acknowledges the profound impact of stillbirth, which the CDC reports affects approximately 21,000 families annually in the United States. Providing tangible mementos helps families navigate the grieving process during a month specifically set aside for national reflection.

The CDC reports approximately 21,000 stillbirths occur annually across the country. These services have been part of ongoing care since the awareness month was established in 1988.

The players

Sanford Hospital

A medical facility in Fargo that provides comprehensive patient care, including specialized support services for grieving families.

CDC

The national public health agency that tracks mortality statistics, including the annual count of stillbirths in the United States.

The details

Nurses at the facility create physical mementos, specifically focusing on capturing handprints and footprints for parents. This act of care is intended to offer families a concrete reminder of their infants as part of the hospital's support services during the awareness period.

1988: The year Infant Loss Awareness Month began.
October: The designated month for Infant Loss Awareness.

The Home Front

Infant Loss Awareness Month has served as a touchstone for public health support and memorial practices since its establishment in 1988. Sanford Hospital's efforts align with broader trends in medical care that prioritize the emotional and psychological needs of families following pregnancy loss.

Families in the Fargo area who may be navigating a loss can reach out to their healthcare providers to inquire about available bereavement support and memento options. Recognizing October as a month of awareness can serve as a starting point for families seeking additional emotional resources or support groups.

The takeaway

Hospital memorial programs provide a vital, lasting connection for families grieving a significant loss. Those looking for resources can connect with their local hospital's chaplaincy or patient support departments for information on commemorative services.