CARMEL – New York State loses 1,170 babies to stillbirth each year or 5.7 per 1,000 births yet research suggests 25 percent of stillbirths may be preventable with better awareness and care.
Realizing the heartbreak of stillbirth, Putnam County joined families and communities worldwide for the International Wave of Light, marking Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day when a group of officials and residents gathered in quiet remembrance of babies lost to stillbirth, miscarriage, and infant loss, while standing in solidarity with the parents and families who continue to love and remember them.
A vigil was held near the Angel of Hope statue at Veterans Memorial Park in Kent. The bronze statue, dedicated to parents who have suffered the loss of a child, provided a peaceful setting.
County Executive Kevin Byrne told those gathered, “These lights serve as a simple but powerful message to grieving families: You are seen, your baby is remembered, and you are not alone. We remember the babies, support the parents, and keep working so fewer families ever face this heartbreak.”
Byrne added that in Putnam County, officials remain committed to supporting families by strengthening the mental health resources they need. The Mobile Crisis Outreach Team provides free, community-based crisis response.
Plans recently announced will enhance and expand coverage, clinical capacity, and follow-up so help is available when families need it most. Partnerships with community providers and first responders also continue to deepen so no family must navigate grief alone.
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