The challenge of grief was compounded while caring for her surviving twin, Callie, in the NICU. One day, another mother of twins casually remarked that Millie was “lucky” not to have twins, unaware of Skye’s passing. The comment struck deeply, leaving Millie heartbroken.
From this painful experience, Millie realized a simple visual reminder could prevent such misunderstandings and honor babies who had passed. She created a purple butterfly sticker to place on incubators, symbolizing babies no longer with their families. Purple was chosen as a color that represents both boys and girls, and butterflies symbolize remembrance.
This idea grew into the Skye High Foundation, which launched the Purple Butterfly Campaign. The campaign has since been adopted by hospitals in many countries and has expanded to include a range of items and gifts, all aimed at supporting families and acknowledging babies who passed away.
Millie emphasizes that while nothing can erase the pain of losing a child, small gestures like the purple butterfly can make a meaningful difference for grieving parents.
Today, Millie’s surviving daughter Callie is seven years old, and the foundation continues to provide comfort and recognition for families experiencing similar losses.