Today marks the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day (October 15) in Tasmania.
In officially recognising this day, the Tasmanian Government hopes to create awareness in the wider community as well as demonstrate to families that they are not alone.
There is no doubt that losing a child is one of the most traumatic experiences anyone could go through.
Losing a child is rarely spoken about and families can feel isolated as they are often left to grieve in silence.
In Tasmania there are approximately 40 stillbirths and 20 newborn deaths each year. Australia wide, there are 2000 stillbirths.
The formalisation of a remembrance day comes after former Attorney-General Vanessa Goodwin introduced early loss recognition certificates in 2015.
I want to acknowledge Bears of Hope Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support founder Maria Bond, who has been the voice for bereaved families and has played an integral role in seeing this official day of remembrance become a reality.