Abstract

For those of us gathered expectantly in the frescoed 16th-century Clementine Hall in Vatican City on a brilliant spring morning in May 2019, it was a profound moment when Pope Francis spoke the words “perinatal hospice”. I wish all the medical professionals who have pioneered and developed this care over the last 25 years could have been in that majestic hall with us. Their cumulative work—along with the poignant stories of many families—is inspiring people around the globe and helping more people than they may ever know. The hour-long private papal audience for conference attendees was the culmination of a three-day conference titled “Yes to Life! Caring for the Precious Gift of...