California Legislature Declares the Month of March “Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month”

[Sacramento, CA] – Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) authored and introduced HR 24, a resolution to declare the month of March, Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month statewide. This action on the Assembly floor marks the first time that the California State Legislature has recognized this tragic category of death that happens to approximately one in one hundred thousand children in the United States, and has claimed at least 982 lives in California since 2011.

“Most often, a seemingly healthy child goes to sleep and never wakes up, and unanswered questions only serve to add to already immeasurable grief,” Assemblywoman Carrillo explained. “Tomorrow we will know more than we do today, but today, it is imperative that every family that suffers from this tragic loss is able to access a network of community support and comprehensive mental health resources to help them in their time of mourning,” she added.

With the support of the Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Foundation, the Los Angeles Dodgers Organization, and the Koufax family, Assemblywoman Carrillo’s resolution calls for more research into the possible causes of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood, and better data collection to make sure that each of these tragedies is documented in every community – regardless of race, wealth, language spoken in the home, or any other factor.

“Our family is committed to highlighting important issues, and shining a light on every family affected by Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood will help us bring about a future where children aren’t lost suddenly and unexpectedly,”Jane Koufax stated.

Laura Gould Crandall, on behalf of the Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Foundation added, “We’re proud to see the California Assembly recognize Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness month for the first time. With the help of policymakers all over America, we can bring much needed attention and resources to data collection, research, and family support to bring an end to this childhood tragedy.”