“Walk to Remember” Jaxen and Other Babies Lost Too Soon

On Oct. 6, the Hygeia Foundation, a non-profit provider of support services to parents who have lost a pregnancy or infant, will hold its third annual Footprints on Our Hearts Walk to Remember at 1 p.m. at East Shore Park in New Haven.

While Stephanie Byrd, a Branford resident who grew up in North Branford and now teaches at NBHS, is still coping with the heartache of losing her son Jaxen at 32 weeks pregnant, she is grateful for having the support of the Hygeia Foundation.

“I first heard of the Hygeia Foundation more than a decade ago when a family member gave birth to a stillborn daughter. When I experienced my loss, I knew before I even left the hospital that I would become involved with this community of support,” said Byrd. “Suffering the loss of a child is devastating and I knew I would need the support of other mothers and families who had experienced what I had.”

The Hygeia Foundation offers six free peer-to-peer support groups led by two trained volunteer facilitators who have themselves experienced the loss of a pregnancy or infant.

“Attending the meetings each month allows me an opportunity to receive the support I need and also honor my son at the same time,” said Byrd. “I have met the most amazing parents who have experienced loss in their own lives and it is so comforting to be among those who know exactly what I have been through.” 

Byrd shares the story of her loss on Team Jaxen’s fundraising page, having set a goal of raising $2,500. More importantly, though, she wants people to remember her son.

“We are grateful for every single dollar donated,” she said, but if you cannot donate, “I ask that you simply keep Jaxen in your memory and think of him from time to time. The walk is not only for those who have experienced loss – we welcome anyone who wishes to come out to show support for families who have lost a baby.  In fact, it means so much to our families to know that members of the general community support us.”

If you know someone who is grieving the loss of a pregnancy or an infant, the Hygeia Foundation shares suggestions will help you provide comfort and support to someone you care about. 

“For me, it is so important for my family and friends to acknowledge my son, Jaxen, to allow me an opportunity to talk about him and my experiences and to continue to reach out long after the loss,” said Byrd.

All funds raised from the walk will go toward the Hygeia Foundation’s programs: free bereavement support services to parents who grieve the loss of a pregnancy or infant, burial assistance to low-income Connecticut parents who have lost a baby, and community outreach and educational programs. 

To donate to Team Jaxen, visit Byrd's fundraising page. Or you can register for the walk on the Hygeia Foundation's website.

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