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Who Are We?

Miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss are among the most difficult experiences a family will ever suffer. At this time of shock and sadness, it can be difficult for you to know how to move forward. It is normal to grieve for your child, even if your child has died early in the womb. You may want to bury your child. Some find it helpful to talk with someone who has lost a baby; who will walk with you through this process. Jacob’s Ladder Foundation exists to provide practical help to families in our community who are impacted by miscarriage, stillbirth or infant loss.
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What Can We Do?

* Prepare you to know what to expect during your loss from a parent’s point of view. * Listen to your story. Your baby’s life has meaning and value. * Provide a coffin and burial place, at no cost, in Portland City Cemetery for your child. Your child will rest in an individual niche alongside other babies within a columbarium reserved for this purpose. Cremated remains may also be interred. * Memorialize your baby with a name plaque, even if you have no remains to bury or your loss was long ago. * Refer you to a professional or support group to work through your grief.

How Can You Help?

Your financial donations make it possible to provide our services to all members of the community without cost to them. The Jacob’s Ladder Foundation is recognized as a charitable purposes corporation and is tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All contributions are fully tax-deductible. Donations can be sent to the address below: Jacob's Ladder Foundation 5455 Goodwin Road Lyons, MI 48851 Checks should be made out to: Jacob’s Ladder Foundation Please note if your gift has been made in memory of a loved one. These gifts will be recognized with a memorial card.

Jacob's Story

Pat & Carolyn Heckman were thrilled to be expecting a baby. Their hearts filled with love, hope and dreams for their child. Then came the devasting news that their son had passed away. Jacob Daniel Heckman was born too early at 19 weeks gestation. Faith and the support of friends and family helped Pat and Carolyn find meaning in Jacob’s brief life. He is missed and loved by his parents and siblings. Pat & Carolyn Heckman founded Jacob’s Ladder Foundation in Jacob’s memory. Their hope is that Jacob’s passing will provide an opportunity to serve the community of Portland by helping families heal from the death of their children and by establishing and maintaining a communal place of burial.