Reply from Pastoral Services

Receiving this response today helped me to breathe easier and makes me feel so much better should I need the D&C as that will still be my last choice. Always, always advocate for yourself and know what the laws are so when they say you cannot you can show them you know your rights.

First of all, I want to extend my sympathies to you as you journey down this road of grief and loss once again.
In regards to your current baby’s death and possible D&C – I want to affirm you in your decision to have your baby buried alongside his brother.
 
In the State of X in accordance with X law “including sections 194.375 through 194.390” you have the right to determine the final disposition of your baby, regardless of the gestation age.
It is important that you work with a funeral home because the hospital cannot release your baby directly to you but to a funeral home.
I’m sorry if this sounds cold with the legalese above but I want to supply you with the proper law(s) that dictate you are able to choose what you want done after the delivery.
 
My suggestion is that if you live around the X area or in the area of a X Hospital where you might be delivering your baby, contact the local pastoral care office and inform them.
Ask for a chaplain to give you a call and then that person can follow up with you immediately after the delivery so you won’t have to go through what you did with your previous baby.
 
Once again, my heart aches for you and I pray that God and the angels surround you with love and compassion with the promise of you reuniting with your babies at the time of your death.
Please contact me if you have any questions or need more information.
Blessings to you,
Sister