Illinois
Parental Rights After Miscarriage (as of October 2023): In Illinois, parents have the right to the release and burial of their child, and will be notified of their disposition options. (Please note: A death certificate is mandatory if a stillbirth occurs after 20 weeks of gestation.)
The Compassionate Friends
If you are a member (or a friend) of a family that has suffered the death of a child, The Compassionate Friends is here to help you and provide support for the family. Feel free to contact TCF’s National Office at 877-969-0010 or nationaloffice@compassionatefriends.org if you need assistance in finding a local Chapter or you have any other questions.
UChicago Medicine
Never Forgotten is a free support group for parents and loved ones who have experienced the loss of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth or early infant death. This environment is a safe space where mothers, fathers and grandparents can comfortably express feelings, feel supported and find help to heal.
MISS Foundation
The MISS Foundation provides support for families struggling with traumatic grief. We provide Family Support Packets with information and resources for bereaved parents, grandparents and siblings. Upon request, we will connect you with a volunteer HOPE mentor. The MISS Foundation also has support groups in some communities, as well as counseling options and referrals. In this section, we offer a variety of resources for bereaved family members.
Share
Share offers in-person and online support groups for grieving families in Illinois.
The Haven Network
Enduring the death of your baby is likely the most heart-breaking event a parent and family could ever experience. We want you to know that you are not alone. Your feelings are real. Your baby is real. The love you have for your baby is real. The Haven Network can support you and your family as you grieve the death of your baby.
Southern Illinois Healthcare
Multiple resources for grief support.
Pregnancy After Loss Support
Rockford – The Haven Network – Healing Hearts meeting every third Monday of the month (except December), from 6:30-8:30pm. Meets at 124 N. Water Street, Suite 201, Rockford, IL. For more information, call 815-962-1512 or email info@thehavennetwork.org.
Hopeful Beginnings of Saint Mary’s
The loss of a child is the most devastating experience a parent can face-and missing the child never goes away. A piece of yourself is lost and your future is forever changed. Receiving counseling with one of our counselors can help you process your feelings of grief and loss. Our counselors can help you through this difficult time.