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COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our world in ways we never would have imagined just a few short weeks ago.  Unfortunately, many of life’s other challenges continue – including miscarriages, stillbirth, and neonatal death.  Even worse, the families enduring these losses in this unusual time may have even less support than they would otherwise.  We are hopeful that the virus itself and social distancing will not cause an increase in poor pregnancy outcomes, but that largely remains to be seen.  One thing we can promise – is that you are not alone. 

To grieving families:  our hearts break with you and for you.  We remain a community of families, friends, and health professionals who are here to support you in any way we can.  Our support line is open to anyone impacted by pregnancy and infant loss – 952-715-7731 ,ext 1.  We offer the following free support groups online.  Visit www.starlegacyfoundation.org/support-groups/ for details and to register. 

  • Grieving parents
  • Coping with infant death
  • Dad’s grief discussion group
  • Grieving Grandparents
  • Parenting after loss
  • Pregnancy after loss

Our peer support program is designed to give you access to another parent or grandparent who has been in a similar situation. If you would appreciate calling, emailing, texting, or facetiming with someone, please let us know at [email protected].

Please connect with us on social media.  We are having experts share information about the latest updates as well as tips for coping. If you have a medical or mental health question for our medical advisors, please send them to [email protected].  Facebook: starlegacyfoundation   Twitter:  @starlegacyfdn  Intagram:  starlegacyfoundation. 

To our volunteers and donors:  Thank you for your continued support and passion.  We have been touched by the kind notes we’ve been receiving and appreciate knowing that our continued programming is valued.  We also know that the economic changes and uncertainty make charitable giving especially meaningful.  Many of our usual funding sources have changed dramatically or been discontinued in the last two weeks, so your financial support is greatly appreciated! 

Many of you look forward to our Champion Events as a time to connect with other families.  As our spring events are being rescheduled, cancelled, or moved to virtual events, please know that we are continuing to look for opportunities to ensure our sense of community remains strong.  This challenge is helping us all become more creative in our approach to our daily lives as well as activities we previously enjoyed.  We hope to be back in full-force very soon!

For anyone who is looking for a distraction or active ways to nurture their grief, contact Laura at [email protected] to learn how you can help keep our programs strong for our communities.  If you are looking for creative or different ways to support our efforts financially, please contact Amy at [email protected]

To health professionals:  We are so grateful for the work that you are all doing every day to keep us safe, help us heal, and care for us in our worst moments.  We are doing our best to stay home because that is one of the best things we can do for you at this time.  But we are with you!   Our support line is also available to you, too!  952-715-7731, ext 1. 

We offer several free, online trainings and workshops about caring for grieving families and promoting positive pregnancy outcomes.  In response to COVID-19, we are adding additional and recorded sessions.  Please visit www.starlegacyfoundation.org/upcoming-events/.   Check back frequently to see the latest additions. 

To pregnant families: We remain committed to reducing poor pregnancy outcomes.  Now more than ever, we believe that every pregnancy deserves a happy ending.  Watch our social media for the latest information from experts about how to protect yourself and your baby.  We are adding additional free, online Childbirth Classes for those in a Pregnancy After a loss.  View www.starlegacyfoundation.org/upcoming-events/ for the details and to register. 

Many of the routine prenatal care protocols are changing during this time.  Even though your visits may be moved to phone conversations by your choice or the office requirements, please feel free to share any and all questions and concerns you have with your provider.  As always, we encourage you to monitor your pregnancy and report any and all changes IMMEDIATELY.   Understand your baby’s typical behaviors and know that any change in the frequency, strength, or pattern of baby’s movements may be a sign that they are unwell.  Going to the hospital to be evaluated may be scary, but it is still important to trust your instincts and be your baby’s advocate. 

To everyone:  Take care of yourself!  Some ideas that others are finding helpful:

Connect with yourself and others:

  • journal
  • make a vision board
  • connect with your spirituality
  • call/video chat with family and friends
  • talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling

Spend time outdoors

  • go for a walk
  • garden
  • have a bonfire
  • play games outside
  • have your meals al fresco

Take time to unwind and do activities you enjoy

  • read a book
  • watch a movie
  • craft
  • spend time doing a hobby you love
  • find a new hobby
  • take an online class or course.

Take care of your body

  • exercise
  • eat healthy
  • drink plenty of water
  • get enough sleep
  • meditate
  • try to keep up with regular routines

Take breaks from the news and social media.

Call your healthcare provider if stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days in a row.

Visit www.starlegacyfoundation.org for more ideas or links to additional information. 

We miss the opportunities to see you all and hear your stories in person.  But, we are here and working for you and your families!  Please let us know if we can do more to support you.  Stay well and stay safe!

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