CARMEL, NY — Last week, Putnam County joined families and communities worldwide for the International Wave of Light, marking Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. County Executive Byrne joined a small group of officials and residents gathered in quiet remembrance of babies lost to stillbirth, miscarriage, and infant loss, while standing in solidarity with the parents and families who continue to love and remember them.

A small vigil was held near the Angel of Hope statue at Veterans Memorial Park. The bronze statue, dedicated to parents who have suffered the loss of a child, provided a fitting and peaceful setting. The historic Putnam County Courthouse was illuminated in blue and pink, colors long associated with awareness and remembrance of pregnancy and infant loss. 

Byrne noted, “These lights served as a simple but powerful message to grieving families: you are seen, your baby is remembered, and you are not alone.” As a member of the state Assembly, Byrne co-sponsored and helped pass resolutions proclaiming October 15 as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day in New York State.

The Star Legacy Foundation – New York Metro Chapter continues its important work in education, family support, research, and prevention. Their efforts also underscore where New York still has progress to make.

Six facts highlight the work that remains:

• New York loses roughly 1,170 babies to stillbirth each year.
• The stillbirth rate remains around 5.7 per 1,000 births, with progress largely stalled.
• Racial disparities persist—Black mothers experience stillbirth at roughly twice the rate of White mothers.
• Too many stillbirths remain unexplained.
• Autopsy and full diagnostic rates are still too low.
• Research suggests around 25% of stillbirths may be potentially preventable with better awareness and care.

In Putnam County, officials remain committed to supporting families by strengthening the mental health resources they need. The Mobile Crisis Outreach Team provides free, community-based crisis response. Plans recently announced during Byrne’s budget presentation—and supported by the Legislature earlier this month—will enhance and expand coverage, clinical capacity, and follow-up so help is available when families need it most. Partnerships with community providers and first responders also continue to deepen so no family has to navigate grief alone.

“These lights and this gathering are a reminder that no family walks this path in isolation,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “We remember the babies, support the parents, and keep working so fewer families ever face this heartbreak.”