The Perinatal Bereavement Services Resolve Through Sharing (RTS) is a program of Crouse Hospital for the CNY Region.  It is designed to support parents and families who have experienced the loss of a baby, due to an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, interruption of pregnancy, stillbirth or neonatal death.  We are here to listen.

Grieving is a normal response to the death of a loved one. When a baby dies, the family may also grieve the loss of their hopes, dreams, and their lifetime with that child. Caring, supportive hospital staff can help the family through the initial shock and crisis as they adjust to their changed life without their baby. This is the focus of the RTS Perinatal Bereavement Services program. We offer immediate and on-going support during the family's time of need.

The RTS program uses a team approach to help the family through this difficult period. Representatives from nursing, spiritual care, social services, the funeral home and other related community services are available to assist the family. This program is available to each and every grieving mother, father/significant other and family member. Our support includes listening to the mother and family.  We honor the baby by offering positive choices, providing opportunities to identify family needs, and encourage decisions that can hold some positive memories.

After discharge, an RTS trained staff nurse is in contact with the mother and family. The grieving period has no timetable, and the RTS office is available to offer support for as long as needed.

Many parents and family members find great comfort in sharing their feelings with others who have travelled the same road. Parents and family members may want to attned an event with other parents.

CNY PIBN CNY PIBN Support Group

Mementos

Memories of the baby can help the parents and family through this difficult time. The mother will be offered a memory box or envelope literature specific to the type of loss, photographs and other items.  The mementoes are provided free of charge from Crouse Hospital through donations from caring individuals, including many who have benefited from our program.

At the hospital, photographs are taken of each newborn baby, and they are available in two to three weeks. When the baby's photos arrive, an RTS Bereveanent Services office nurse will contact the parents.

How Can You Help?

Responding to Grieving Families:
TIPS & ADVICE on how you can help a parent and family cope with the loss of a child.

For Further Information

For more information about RTS Bereavement Services, or to reach a counselor:

Jennifer Cross, RNC or Kathy Gorzka
315 470-7372 or 470-2768

MORE INFORMATION: Regional Bereavement Services