SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood)

At the SUDC Foundation, we honor the unique journey of families who experience pregnancy after the loss of a child. 🤱 While the story of a rainbow baby symbolizes hope and new beginnings for many, not all families may consider a rainbow child as part of their healing journey. 🌈 Regardless, the arrival of a rainbow baby does not diminish the grief of losing a child. Just as a rainbow doesn’t erase the storm, the promise of healing remains, even as the clouds of grief may still linger. ⛈

⭐ The SUDC Foundation is here to support you with our trauma-informed services and resources, providing families the guidance they need through this emotional journey. All services are offered at no cost to the families we serve.

➡ To learn more, please visit: sudc.org.

Posting better late than never

It's game day! ⚾️ Don't forget to watch at 1:05 p.m. MST as the Los Angeles Dodgers take on the Oakland Athletics while sporting a patch on their uniforms in honor of #SUDCAwareness Month.

And watch for the special moment when SUDC Mom Melissa Monroe, throws out the first pitch in honor of her daughter Alice (2011-2013) and all the children gone too soon. 💙💛

Watch the game on SportsNet LA or nationally on the MLB Network.

The Peer Connection Program offers dads a way to connect with another father who has experienced loss. Whether through sharing or simply listening, this connection provides validation, reassurance, and practical guidance from someone who understands.

Grief can feel different for dads. Some process it quietly, while others want to talk—but many struggle to find a space where they feel understood. This program offers the opportunity to connect in a way that feels right for you.

💬 A short training will help you feel prepared.

✅ We confirm readiness & availability before making a match.

🤝 Join a network of dads who support each other in ways that fit their needs.

If you're in a place where you feel ready to support another dad through grief, we welcome you to join.

🔗 Sign up today: https://sudc.org/peer-connections-program/

📩 Questions? Contact [email protected]

The SUDC Foundation team is taking part in the Strides for SUDC Awareness Challenge!

As team SUDC Striders for Hope https://runsignup.com/sudcstridersforhope, we will walk, run, and bike throughout March to collectively cover 1,000 miles, raise $1,000, and further increase awareness for SUDC.

⭐ We want YOU to join us and to be a part of this important challenge too! ⭐

Simply head to the event registration page and sign up: Strides for SUDC Awareness Challenge https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Roseland/StrideforSUDCAwareness

Once registered, set up your personal fundraising page to help raise awareness and funds for SUDC. Walk, run, or bike towards your own goal, and invite others to participate with you! Share your progress on your fundraising page and social media networks, and don’t forget to tag the SUDC Foundation!

Let’s take strides together for SUDC Awareness Month to achieve our ultimate goal of 25,000 miles and raise $50,000 for the SUDC Foundation!

State Representative James Arciero, in partnership with the SUDC Foundation and Junie’s Place, led the charge to support Massachusetts families affected by child loss. Today, Representative Arciero hosted SUDC Awareness Day and introduced HD. 3789, a vital bill that would provide 10 days of bereavement leave—a brief yet essential window of time—for families grieving the loss of a child.

With March now officially recognized as SUDC Awareness Month in Massachusetts, we honor the 40 children gone too soon and the 62 Massachusetts family members forever impacted by Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC). By raising awareness and advocating for policies like HD. 3789, we can ensure that families receive the dignity, time, and support they need to grieve and heal. Recognizing that bereavement leave is not just about policy—it is about compassion and acknowledging the lifelong impact of losing a child.

We are grateful to Representative Arciero for his leadership in recognizing the importance of bereavement support and advocating for families who have experienced the unimaginable loss of their child.

📖 Read HD. 3789 and the full press release here: https://sudc.org/legislation-and-policy/

📢 Help spread awareness—share this post and visit SUDC.org & JuniesPlace.org to learn more.

Photo courtesy of the Office of Representative James Arciero

Today is Random Act of Kindness Day.

Please visit our website and download our kindness card template. Here’s how you can make a meaningful impact:

✨ Add your child’s name to honor.

✨ Challenge yourself to pass out one kindness card per week as you go about your day.

Every small act of kindness helps raise SUDC awareness.

👉 Download your template today and join the challenge! https://sudc.org/literature-brochures/

The SUDC Foundation recognizes the profound impact that the sudden death of a child can have not only on families but also on the professionals involved in the case. To support medical professionals in navigating this difficult terrain, the SUDC Foundation offers a wealth of resources at sudc.org.

These resources include:

1. Downloadable fact sheets for quick reference on Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC)
2. Newsletters that provide ongoing updates and research findings
3. Registration for monthly e-news to stay informed about developments in the field
4. Access to social media platforms offering current and accurate information.

Visit the site today for easy access to these vital tools and additional support.

Join us in supporting the SUDC Foundation as we work toward our $75,000 goal, with every donation today tripled thanks to the Jackson Walsh and Moss Pieratt Foundations.

Since 2021, the McDowall family has honored Macy through an Ice Hockey Jamboree, raising awareness for SUDC and celebrating her memory. 💙 As they shared:

“The rink became a safe space for us, offering community, comfort, and a platform to share Macy’s story while raising awareness for SUDC and the families it forever changes.”

💡 Donate now and triple your impact! Every gift makes a difference in supporting families and advancing research. 👉 https://sudc.org/donate

Thank you for your support—together, we can make an incredible impact! 💙

December 2-8 is National Grief Awareness Week—a time for all of us in the SUDC community to reflect, connect, and honor our shared experiences. This week reminds us of the strength we find in each other and the importance of openly acknowledging grief.

At the SUDC Foundation, we are here to walk alongside you, providing a compassionate space and unwavering support at no cost. Together, we can continue to honor our children and bring hope to other families navigating this journey.

Let’s make this week a beacon of compassion, understanding, and giving. 💙

Today marks our 2nd Annual "Give to the Max" campaign for the SUDC Foundation!

Give to the Max is a statewide initiative that brings together communities across Minnesota to support thousands of nonprofits and schools. Your donation today will have an immediate impact, helping us continue our vital work in supporting families like yours and others around the world.

If your employer offers a matching gift program, you can double or even triple your donation! Simply let us know at [email protected], and we’ll confirm the match for your employer.

Please visit GiveMN.org, search for the SUDC Foundation, and make your donation today!

Thank you for your continued generosity and support!

Today is Children’s Grief Awareness Day—a time to honor the unique journey of grieving children. At the SUDC Foundation, we understand the special needs of siblings coping with the sudden loss of a brother or sister.

🦋 Healing Tip: For siblings, creating space to honor their loved ones can foster both healing and connection. Simple acts like lighting a candle, making a memory box, or sharing stories can help siblings feel supported and connected in their grief. Encouraging unique ways to honor their loved one can nurture resilience and validate their grief.

Through our Teen Ambassador Program, we empower siblings to find their voice, build community, and inspire hope in their own journeys and beyond. 🦋 https://sudc.org/ambassador-program/

🦋 Learn more about navigating sibling loss with these resources: https://sudc.org/for-siblings/

At the SUDC Foundation, we believe in the power of kindness to bring comfort, healing and hope to those who have experienced unimaginable loss. Whether it’s offering your compassion, a warm embrace, or simply being present; small acts of kindness can make a world of difference.

The SUDC Foundation offers trauma-informed grief support and services at no charge to those affected by Sudden Unexplained Death In Childhood.

Join us in honoring the strength of our community by sharing kindness today and every day.

Postmortem genetic testing plays a crucial role in understanding sudden unexplained deaths in children (SUDC). It not only helps identify potential causes but also provides key insights for the child’s family, including assessing genetic risks for relatives.

Benefits include uncovering the cause of death, offering peace of mind, and supporting informed decision-making for at-risk family members. Learn more about how genetic testing can aid in investigations and support ongoing research

➡️ https://sudc.org/post-mortem-genetic-testing/

No one should grieve alone. The SUDC Foundation is here to support you every step of the way. From providing emotional support to connecting you with others who understand your journey, we are dedicated to helping you find comfort and hope.

💙 Learn more at www.sudc.org

It's Lift Me Up Tuesday! This is your gentle reminder to take a deep breath and be kind to yourself. 🌿 Grief can be overwhelming, but remember, caring for yourself is an important part of the healing process. You are allowed to take it one moment at a time.

We are here to support you, every step of the way. 💛

The article is about another parent with a child that died of SUDC:

Two of Schruben’s six children died at young ages due to medical complications. At 4 years old, his son Tucker passed away in his sleep. A few years later, Schruben's daughter, Alana, died from complications due to seizures.

“Life involves suffering sometimes,” Schruben said. “But you just have to go on.”

The quote resonates with me quite a bit

Lift Me Up Tuesday 💛

How are you feeling today? It’s important to take a moment and check in with yourself and those around you. Whether you’re feeling “Not Good” or “Amazing!”, your feelings are valid, and it’s okay to share them.

Today, let’s make it a point to check in on our friends and loved ones. A simple “How are you?” can make a world of difference.

Remember, you’re never alone on this journey. Reach out, connect, and lift each other up. 💛

Grieving the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our Peer Connection Program pairs grieving families with volunteers who have walked a similar path, offering support through shared experiences. This program complements professional counseling by providing a compassionate peer friend to listen, share, and understand.

If you or someone you know could benefit from this, request a peer friend today and connect with someone who truly understands. 💛

https://sudc.org/peer-connections-program/

September is National Self-Care Awareness Month, a perfect time to focus on nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical health.

Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential! Here are some practical tips to help you prioritize your well-being:

💧 Drink Water First Thing in the Morning: Hydrate your body to kickstart your day with energy.

✍️ Write Down 5 Things You’re Grateful For Every Day: Gratitude shifts your mindset and keeps you grounded.

🗒 Make a Menu for the Week: Plan nourishing meals that fuel your body and reduce the stress of last-minute decisions.

🏃‍♀️ Move for at Least 30 Minutes a Day: Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or dancing, keep your body active!

🎶 Listen to Good Music: Boost your mood with your favorite songs and let the rhythm lift your spirits.

💪 Exercise Regularly: Strengthen both your body and mind by incorporating regular physical activity into your routine.

📚 Read a Book: Escape into a story or learn something new—reading can be a great form of self-care.

🌟 Try Something New: Step out of your comfort zone and experience something different—it can be refreshing and fun!

🍽 Have a Family Dinner: Connect with loved ones over a meal. Shared moments with family nourish the soul.

Remember, self-care is about finding balance and creating habits that make you feel your best. Let’s make this month the start of a long-term commitment to YOU! 💛 Save for Later!

Naming your emotions is the first step towards healing. Whether it’s sadness, anger, or numbness, acknowledging what you feel can bring clarity and relief.

How are you feeling today? 💭

Our Sibling Card is a valuable resource for children who have experienced the loss of a sibling.

This card can be shared with the child’s medical community or pediatrician, providing essential information about SUDC and the family’s experience. It helps explain the situation without requiring you to share specific details if you’re not ready to do so. This ensures that your child receives the understanding and support they need during this difficult time.

Download the sibling card here : https://sudc.org/literature-brochures/

#ThoughtfulTuesday: The journey through grief is often complex and deeply personal. Understanding the 🔟 Stages of Grief can provide valuable insight into your own healing process:

1. Ugly - The raw, intense emotions that may feel overwhelming.

2. Raw - The vulnerability and openness to experiencing pain.

3. Numb - A period of emotional detachment or disbelief.

4. Searching - The quest for meaning and understanding in the midst of loss.

5. Redefining Values - Reevaluating what truly matters to you.

6. Rebuilding Self - The process of reconstructing your identity.

7. Reintegrating - Gradually returning to daily life with new perspectives.

8. Restoring Purpose - Finding new meaning and direction as you move forward.

9. Open to HOPE - Embracing the possibility of healing and renewal.

10. The Rest of Your Life - Learning to live with your loss while continuing your journey.

Each stage is a crucial part of the healing process, guiding you through the pain and toward restoration.

👉Which stage resonates with you the most right now?

On this #LiftMeUpTuesday, let’s reflect on a powerful thought: 'I have decided that the only way to live is to embrace grief. For grief only exists where love lived first.'

💖 Grief is a testament to the deep love we have experienced. It reminds us that our hearts have been touched profoundly and that we have loved deeply. Embracing this truth allows us to honor those feelings and find strength in them.

Share this message with someone who may need a reminder today that their grief is a reflection of their immense capacity to love.

Here at The Sudden Death in Childhood Foundation, we're committed to advancing research in three impactful ways:

🔬 FUND: We provide crucial financial support to drive groundbreaking studies.

📜 ENDORSE: We advocate for and promote research initiatives that can make a difference.

🔍 IDENTIFY: We identify key areas for research focus to uncover answers and save lives.

Together, we're making strides in understanding and preventing childhood tragedies.

The new school year can be tough for families affected by SUDC. Anxiety and memories can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. In this blog, we cover key tips:

🌟 Open Communication: Talk openly about feelings.

🌟 Establish Routines: Create a daily schedule.

🌟 Visit the School: Familiarize your child with the environment.

🌟 Plan for Triggers: Develop coping strategies.

For a more in-depth discussion on these tips and access to the full toolkit, read our blog. Together, we can support grieving siblings.

➡ https://sudc.org/navigating-back-to-school-anxiety-preparing-for-potential-triggers/