Pregnancy and Infant Loss Society (PAIL)

For more than 50 years, Cuyahoga County has had one of the highest rates of infant deaths in the United States, with even higher numbers for black babies. First Year Cleveland is diligently working to change this so that every baby can celebrate his or her first birthday. We understand the importance of saving our babies, and we also know it’s equally important to provide support to those who have experienced the loss of an infant.

To address this need, the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Society (PAIL) was formed in 2018 to engage and support Black women and men who have experienced infant loss. PAIL is driven by the voices of a 40-member committee comprised of blacks who have experienced loss, community leaders, government agencies, health care providers, mental health professionals, faith-based institutions, and nonprofit organizations.

PAIL provides hope to families who have experienced loss through healing support groups, infant loss remembrance events, education and wellness events, and more. To join, visit the PAIL website.

Wave of Light

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day on October 15th is a day of remembrance for parents, families, caregivers, and friends who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Each year on this date, PAIL members host a beautiful Wave of Light candle-lighting ceremony. During the ceremony, the names of our community’s angel babies are read aloud and a candle is lit for each one in remembrance of a precious life gone too soon.

2021 Wave of Light Ceremony