SIDS stands for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. It can also be known as Sudden Unexpected Death of a Child or SUDC. It is used to describe the sudden death of a baby younger than a year that does not seem to have a known cause. Even after a full investigation of medical staff.
The cause of SIDS as we know it is still unknown as far as research goes. However, there are theories. One being that it may be caused by problems that take place in the area of an infant’s brain that controls their breathing and how they wake-up from deep sleep.
(Doing these methods does not rule out SIDS from happening entirely, they simply aid in preventing it. It is NEVER anyone’s fault when SIDS does happen. It is never expected, and it is never planned.)
Though the cause is unknown, there has been research done on the various prevention methods that have lowered the chance of SIDS within children.
You should always place your baby on a mattress that is firm and flat on their backs. Never on a pillow, waterbed, couch, or other soft surfaces for both SIDS prevention and other safety reasons.
Research has also shown that babies/infants who use pacifiers (though of course, you should get them off the paci once their teeth begin to come in) have a lower chance of SIDS as well. With the pacifier helping them to not sleep as deeply, and wake them up if they’re having trouble breathing. It also keeps the tongue forward in the mouth so that it can’t block their airway.
The ‘Owlet Sock’ has become one of the first FDA approved non-prescribed monitors for infants and children. It is a sock that wraps comfortably around the foot of your baby. It safely and accurately tracks your child's heart rate, oxygen levels, and sleep quality. It also tells parents about their babies sleep patterns and tendencies. If your child were to stop breathing in their sleep it would set off an alarm to alert parents. Potentially saving the life of the wearer.
Not everyone can afford the Owlet Sock monitor, as currently it can cost hundreds of dollars. I never thought that I would be able to have one due to my family's financial situation. Though I’ve always been one to worry about my baby when I lay him down to go to sleep for the night. As I have heard story after story of babies under the age of 1 years-old suddenly passing. But thanks to ‘The Jackson Walsh Foundation’ I was able to get my hands on one finally!
I first found out about ‘The Jackson Walsh Foundation’ when I saw a repost from their page in a PKU support group for parents that I am currently in. They were doing a giveaway of the Owlet Sock monitor to parents who couldn’t financially afford one. I reached out, and they were wonderful. There were no questions asked, and I didn’t feel judged in the slightest.
Their foundation seeks to raise awareness, resources and funds for Sudden Unexplained Infant Death Syndrome in honor of their child Jackson Walsh. Who you can read about on the card that you receive when you receive help from them.
The card reads; “This random act of kindness was done in memory of our son, Jackson Walsh. Jackson unexpectedly passed away at 17 months on February 28, 2020. He was such a happy and loving boy. He loved to eat, golf with daddy, jump, read books, be outside and play with his sister and mommy. Please keep his memory alive by spreading kindness and awareness of Sudden Unexplained Death of a child (SUDC).”
Jackson’s story has touched the hearts of many as they continue to remember him. Hosting events such as ‘Jogging for Jackson’ a virtual 5k, candle sales in memory of Jackson, and more that can be found on their social media pages.
You can aid in their cause in spreading awareness by donating to their foundation, helping them to keep Jackson’s memory alive. Helping them to help others. If you currently can’t afford to donate, that’s okay too! You can still be proactive by following their social media, sharing their posts, and just showing your support!