Local family delivers 17 bags of self-care items to hospital for stillbirth survivors

Nurses at Oak Lawn Hospital in Marshall, Michigan, received 17 bags of self-care items on Thursday. The delivery marks the fifth anniversary of the stillbirth of the donors' son.

Sabrina Miller and her husband Brenden assemble the gifts, known as Beau's Bags, at a children's table in their home. Each package contains socks, lotion, a notebook, and a water bottle. The items are intended for mothers of stillborn children who use the birth center.

The tradition began after two close friends brought care packages to the Millers following their son's death. Beau Anthony was stillborn five years ago. Sabrina Miller said the initial gesture inspired her to create similar packages for others in the same situation.

Jill Hays, a nurse at Oak Lawn Birth Center, stated that the bags provide a tangible object for grieving parents. She explained that having something prepared by another mother who has endured a similar journey gives women something to hold onto during a difficult time.

Sabrina Miller noted that she often blamed her own body after Beau's death. She included water bottles in the kits as a reminder for other mothers to hydrate and care for themselves. She said the items serve as a message that the loss was not their fault.

Brenden Miller said the annual project helps keep their son's memory present in their daily lives. He described the process of spreading Beau's name as a way to feel like he is still there. The family has four other children, but Beau remains part of their official count.

The Millers visit the hospital on or around May 4, Beau's birthday. Friends and family release balloons with wishes on that date. Sabrina Miller said the staff at the hospital recognizes her and makes her feel at home during the delivery. She hopes the project helps other mothers feel more comfortable discussing their babies.