Parent of a child that died of SUDC, and spreading awareness of SUDC. Not a representative of the SUDC foundation.
I found my three year old unresponsive during a nap and knew he was dead, but had to try my best to comfort my wife as she broke down screaming while trying to resuscitate him. It's still hard to think about.
If this happens to someone you know, please let them know about SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood). It's like SIDS but for children older than 1 year. The SUDC Foundation has a website at https://sudc.org/ and provides community for parents, grandparents and siblings that have gone through it. In my case, having community might've been lifesaving.
Sorry to come across like a PSA, but March will be SUDC Awareness Month, and this post made me think of it. I'll be posting about it over in [email protected]. It's not exactly an upbeat Lemmy community, but I hope that it can help anybody else going through the same thing find the community they need.
Today is Random Act of Kindness Day ✨
> 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/
Free grief resources to assist with child loss
> 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) > 1. Newsletters that provide ongoing updates and research findings > 1. Registration for monthly e-news to stay informed about developments in the field > 1. Access to social media platforms offering current and accurate information. > > Visit the site today for easy access to these vital tools and additional support.
🌍 TODAY is Giving Tuesday! 🌟
> 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! 💙
National Grief Awareness Week
> 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 is Give To The Max Day
> 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
> 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/
World Kindness Day
> 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.
SUDC Foundation Postmortem Genetic Testing
> 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/
SUDC Foundation Support Services
> 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
Lift Me Up Tuesday
> 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. 💛
Maryland father posts daily 'dad joke' in yard to help cope with loss
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
These posts are about maintaining mental health, not achieving it. If you're deeply depressed or have other serious things going on, you should talk to a professional.
Everybody's different, and each approach helps everyone differently. You might appreciate this perspective more:
What have you got to lose?
You know, you come from nothing
You're going back to nothing
What have you lost? Nothing!
Always look on the bright side of life
This post is about maintenance mode. Suicidal ideation is emergency mode, and these steps would not be appropriate. If you or anyone else reading this are having suicidal ideation, please talk to someone qualified. In the US, you can dial 9-8-8.
Lift Me Up Tuesday - Daily Check-in
> 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. 💛
SUDC Peer Connections Program
> 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/
Self-Care Checklist
> 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!
International Literacy Day
> On #InternationalLiteracyDay, let’s broaden the conversation to include grief literacy. Just as we learn to read and write, we can also learn to understand and support those going through grief. Being grief-literate means recognizing that grief is a personal journey for everyone, offering empathy, and knowing when to listen rather than trying to fix things. > > Let’s build a more compassionate, understanding world—one where we are not only literate in books, but also in the emotions that connect us all. 💛 https://sudc.org/grief-resources/
Sorry, missed the notification on this, but here's a virtual hug for you: 🫂
Hopefully you got some in-person hugs as well
Today We Celebrate Grandparents Day
> Today is Grandparents Day, and we want to honor and recognize the incredible strength of those within our SUDC Community. Your love, resilience, and enduring presence are a testament to the powerful bond you shared. Today, we stand with you and acknowledge your strength. 💛 > > Today is your day.
Mental Health Self Care Wheel
> Small, simple acts of self-care can make a big difference. Whether it’s a short walk, a cup of tea, or just a few moments of deep breathing, take time today to nurture your body and mind. 🌿
Acknowledging Your Grief & Giving Permission To Grieve
> 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? 💭
Download For Free Our Sibling Support Card
> 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/
Note that like the 5 Stages of Grief that you've probably head of, this is an oversimplistic model. The reality involves a lot of bouncing between each of these at various times to various degrees. This book explains the process from the perspective of neuroscience and talks about a better model:
The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss
And this book talks about it more from a social perspective:
The 10 Stages of Grief
> #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?