Infant Death Center
Access to Grief Support & Bereavement Resources
We want Wisconsin families that experience an unexpected infant death to have access to grief support and bereavement resources. In Wisconsin, more than 80 infants (on average) die unexpectedly each year. Families experiencing the death of a child enter into a lifelong process of grieving. The grief and bereavement journey is overwhelming and difficult if support is not available. Professional staff dedicated to helping families through this difficult journey is critical to the healing process.
Support for Your Grief Journey
You are not alone. The Infant Death Center is here to help families struggling with the unexpected death of an infant. Whatever the circumstances surrounding your baby’s death, no parent is prepared to lose their precious child and no parent should have to feel alone on their grief journey. We are very sorry for your loss. The Infant Death Center is here to provide resources and support.
Please call or email Joanna if you would like to talk or learn more.
Key Resources
Learn more about the Infant Death Center and unexpected infant loss. If you would like to find a support group online or in your community, please see our Infant Loss Directory.
Healing Hearts Newsletter
Read personal stories and articles on grief and child loss.
Infant Loss Support Directory
View a statewide list of support groups, memorial programs and special events.
Infant Death Center Brochure
Learn about the Infant Death Center and the services we provide for families and professionals.
SIDS Brochure
Learn facts and myths about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Our Services
Bereavement support
During the year following an infant death, our staff provides grief support and services by phone. We collaborate with professionals and organizations to reach families and identify helpful resources.
Consultation with pediatric pathologist
A pediatric pathologist from Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin is available to consult with families and professionals to help them better understand the cause of their child’s death. The pathologist can discuss autopsy findings, medical examiner reports, test results and/or other information.
Community trainings
Our staff provides resources, such as safe sleep materials, self-care guidance and bereavement training to support families and professionals working with families.
Contact Our Staff
For more information, please contact:
Joanna O’Donnell
Project Coordinator
(414) 337-4571
jodonnell@chw.org
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
Healing Hearts
Featuring support for families through articles on grief and loss. A place to reflect and heal.
The Infant Death Center is funded by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Division of Public, MCH Title V Services Block grant through the Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Health and Human Services, and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin Foundation.
