Our first project with CHI Saint Joseph Health Foundations was unveiled on July 27, 2019, Avery's second birthday. These projects were to benefit the Women's Hospital at CHI Saint Joseph East, where Avery Elizabeth was stillborn on July 27, 2017, and provide additional support and compassionate services to the nearly 50 families that experience infant loss at Saint Joseph East per year. Here are some details on the project:
Avery Elizabeth Fountain of Remembrance which will honor Avery and all of the babies who have left us too early. The Remembrance Fountain would create a lasting legacy for Avery and help bring healing and honor to mothers whose babies were born into Heaven.
Custom Artwork for L&D and Antepartum Units to cover existing artwork for patients that are experiencing infant loss. It will also be used by hysterectomy patients as deemed necessary. The current artwork depicts babies, children and families which is difficult to view for women experiencing infant loss or those who are faced with a hysterectomy at an early age.
Camera and Equipment for the hospital. The Women's Hospital at Saint Joseph East partners with Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, a service that provides remembrance photography for those whose babies were born into Heaven. All photographers are volunteers and unfortunately, not always available when their services are needed. Also, NILMDTS provides photography for babies that are greater than 24 weeks. The hospital and our foundation feel this is a vital service and an important part of the healing process. A high quality camera is needed for those instances where a NILMDTS photographer is not available or the baby was born prior to 24 weeks so the nurses can use the department's camera to provide the family with these precious keepsakes.
Custom stationary for the bereavement coordinator to reach out to each patient that has suffered infant loss or miscarriage to let the know they are not alone and to see if they would like counseling sessions.
To continue to help grow the funds in the bereavement department for expenses as they present themselves such as bereavement training for physicians, chaplains, & nursing staff, keepsake items for families of loss, and help with burial costs for families of loss.
Projects & Events
Our continued relationship with CHI Saint Joseph Health Foundations has allowed us to be the yearly sponsor of their Walk to Remember for Stillbirth, Infant Loss and Miscarriage at Calvary Cemetery in Lexington, KY.
Check back for announcement of fundraising event and stay tuned for details on our first annual Avery Elizabeth Golf Scramble coming in 2025 or 2026!
