The importance of talking about one of life's most difficult experiences

By Lori Walsh,

Published October 28, 2025 at 1:50 PM CDT

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On today's show...

South Dakota has an infant mortality rate of more than 7 deaths per 1000 live births. The data have remained mostly stable for the past 11 years.

South Dakota Secretary of Health Melissa Magstadt talks about the work that still needs to be done (1:00-12:58).

We then look at how we talk about pregnancy and infant loss, and the way we care for people after a baby dies.

Rebecca Little and Colleen Long are authors of "I'm Sorry for My Loss: An Urgent Examination of Reproductive Care in America." They discuss their research and their personal experiences with pregnancy and infant loss (12:58-33:56).

Plus, we talk to the people who support individuals and families through loss.

Kristen Peterson and Tom Schelsky are funeral directors at Heritage Funeral Home in Sioux Falls (33:56-49:24).

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The importance of talking about one of life's most difficult experiences

Can't find what you're looking for?

We're here to help.

If you are having trouble locating or accessing SDPB content and services for any reason, including a need for accommodations such as alternate formats for accessibility purposes, we will do our best to provide the assistance you need.

Visit our Contact Page to explore our support options, or call us at (605) 677-5861 and we will help you find where you need to be.