Stillborn Birth Certificate

Meet Shawn Betts, a courageous mother who turned her grief into purpose and advocacy.

On June 14, 1991, Shawn Betts welcomed her daughter, Courtney, into the world. Tragically, Courtney was born sleeping at 42 weeks, leaving Shawn with a profound sense of loss. Shawn was shattered when she received a death certificate for Courtney but no birth certificate. Despite the pain, Shawn embarked on a mission to honor, remember, and celebrate Courtney's life.

In 2006, Shawn's quest for answers led her to join forces with a grassroots committee led by three other Pennsylvania mothers who had experienced similar losses. Together, they embarked on a journey of advocacy and education, fighting for Pennsylvania Senate Bill 326, also known as the Certificate of Birth Resulting in Stillbirth.

For five arduous years, Shawn and her fellow advocates tirelessly campaigned for the bill's passage. Their efforts bore fruit when, on June 29, 2011, the bill passed unanimously through the Senate. Governor Tim Corbett's approval on July 7, 2011, marked a historic moment for Pennsylvania families touched by stillbirth. The bill's implementation on September 5, 2011, allowed families across the state to apply for their stillborn child's birth certificate, regardless of gestational age.

In finding purpose amidst her pain, Shawn became a beacon of hope for others navigating similar grief. 

Ordering a Stillborn Birth Certificate
Now, you too can take the next step in honoring your stillborn child's memory. Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health's official page on Stillborn Birth Certificates to learn how to order yours today. Let Shawn's journey inspire you to seek recognition for your child's life and commemorate their legacy.