Measurements Guide Revision and Bereavement Program Update

We are constantly striving to ensure that we provide our volunteers with the best information and the hospitals we support with what really works best.  Over the years we’ve wondered if our measurements for the items we donate are “just right”.  When I started working as an NICU RN, I discovered that our measurements guide wasn’t quite right for our bereavement items.  I found that the guide was giving our volunteers the measurements for the baby, but it didn’t give any insight as to what the garment itself should measure. 

After much discussion with our Labor and Delivery and NICU nurse liaisons, we’ve revised our Measurements Guide to accurately reflect what the bereavement garments should measure.  You will notice that the hats measurements remain the same.  However, the second table now provide “Garment Measurements”.  They are still categorized by pounds.  Please note these measurements going forward. 

At this time, one of our greatest needs is for items to support our Bereavement Program.  Unfortunately the needs in Iowa are great.  Methodist hospital in Des Moines, IA has requested yearly support for 90 fetal demises.  These losses occur as early as miscarriages in the first trimester and as late as 42 weeks.  We have been able to support the needs of this hospital, but need increased support to meet the needs of many others.  The goal of our Bereavement Program is to provide solace to grieving families through the provision of tiny clothing to hold their baby after his or her birth.  This clothing is offered as a keepsake and another set is given for burial.  A handmade memory box is also give to hold items of remembrance and serve as a symbol of their child’s life.

We received a $2,000 grant this year from the Washington County Riverboat Foundation to provide memory boxes to grieving families throughout 2013.  We will be announcing work shop dates in Des Moines and Iowa City soon. 

In the meantime, our greatest needs are for handmade clothing items and mementos.  You can find a list of patterns requested by the hospitals we support here.  Our greatest need is for tiny buntings in soft, gender-neutral colors.  Find a knit pattern here and a crochet pattern here.  We also need this gown pattern in soft, pastel blue, pink, yellow, purple and green (please place buttons all of the way down the front for ease of dressing the baby and ensure that there is extra length).  This sleeper sack pattern is also requested.  Matching hats are also helpful.

Thank you for considering supporting our Bereavement program.  Please contact us with questions.  We will keep you updated on our needs.