Texas House Bill HR1352

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Recognizing April 13, 2017, as Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death Day at the State Capitol.

Impact

The resolution highlights the need for greater awareness about the emotional complexities surrounding neonatal loss and aims to provide a platform for mourning families. By officially recognizing this day, the state acknowledges the significance of perinatal grief support, promoting understanding and encouraging community involvement in helping families navigate their loss. The focus on M.E.N.D. reflects the importance of such organizations in providing communal healing and resources.

Summary

H.R. No. 1352 is a resolution recognizing April 13, 2017, as Mommies Enduring Neonatal Death Day at the State Capitol. This day serves to honor the M.E.N.D. organization, which offers assistance to families grieving the loss of a child due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or early infant death. Through support groups and resources, M.E.N.D. has been a vital part of the coping process for affected families since its founding in 1996 by Rebekah and Byron Mitchell, who turned their personal tragedy into a commitment to support others facing similar grief.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding H.R. 1352 is positive, with strong support from those advocating for recognition of neonatal loss. The resolution is viewed as a compassionate acknowledgment of the struggles faced by grieving families, with legislators and community members rallying behind the initiative to promote awareness and support systems. The approval of this resolution indicates a collective effort to validate the experiences of those affected by such tragedies.

Contention

While there was little public contention surrounding H.R. 1352, the overarching theme of discussing neonatal loss can sometimes lead to differing opinions regarding the societal responses to such tragedies. Some may argue for additional resources and policy changes in the health care system for supporting parents through the grief process. However, the resolution primarily focused on acknowledgment and awareness, which were largely well-received without major opposition.