Saturday, December 11, 2010

SIDS - Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

What is SIDS?

From a scientific perspective, the term Sudden Infant Death Syndrome refers to the sudden and unexpected death of an apparently healthy infant, one whose death remains unexplained even after a complete post mortem investigation that includes a full autopsy, an examination of the circumstances of the death, and a review of the case history.

In reality, SIDS is not a diagnosis. It simply refers to a group of infants who, although they looked healthy, died suddenly and for no apparent reason. In other words, the cause of death cannot be established.


What Causes SIDS?

No one knows why a seemingly well baby dies so suddenly, so unexpectedly. Each year new theories arise as to what causes SIDS. But as yet, no single theory has yielded the answer that will enable us to prevent these tragic deaths. Ongoing research continues to shed new light on the processes involved. We need to remember, however, that all findings must be scrutinized to ensure that all factors have been taken into consideration. Many theories, highly plausible at first glance, have been rejected after more detailed studies.

FACTS you should know:

SIDS cannot be predicted or prevented at this time.
SIDS is not caused by neglect or child abuse.
SIDS does not appear to cause a baby suffering.
SIDS is not contagious or infectious.
SIDS is not considered hereditary.
SIDS is not caused by vaccinations or by toxic gases.
SIDS is not a new medical problem.
SIDS occurs rapidly and silently, usually during periods of sleep.
SIDS probably has more that one cause, although the final death mechanisms appear to be similar.
SIDS is not anyone's fault. 

Kyler Kristopher James ~ Oct. 15th - Dec. 25th, 1988

I lost my son on Christmas Day, 1988...I put him to bed as normal and in the morning when we were about to open our presents...we found him still and lifeless in his crib.  He was 2 1/2 months old and was a beautiful little boy...


Big sister, December-Dawn holding her brother for the first time...
October 15th, 1988

December-Dawn, me and Kyler

December-Dawn and Kyler on Christmas Eve

I still have no answers as to what happened that day...


 

Never use these items in your baby's crib

Comforters   Pillows Wedges
Positioners  Duvets Bumper Pads
Bedding Rolls  Quilts Heating Pads
Electric Blankets  Toys Loose Bedding

5 comments:

  1. Oh Honey, my heart goes out to you. I am so very sorry for your family's loss :( You're in my thoughts and prayers. ((HUGS!))

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  2. I am so incredibly sorry, my heart goes out to you and your family this Christmas.

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  3. Oh what a heartbreak. It must make Christmas a difficult time for you. May God surround you with His peace and His love.

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  4. Wow. I am sooo very sorry. I couldn't even imagine. Thank you for sharing.

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  5. I am so very sorry! We too lost an infant, but not to SIDS. Our Rachel Faith was Trisomy 18 and was born/died Thanksgiving 2002. It's a wound that never heals. Thank you for sharing your experience and these precious photos!

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