Transforming grief into action.
Uplifting stories. Advancing change.
The Allegheny County Fetal and Infant Mortality Review (FIMR) process, which is called Project Butterfly, is a community-centered collaborative effort that looks at the circumstances surrounding pregnancy and infant losses to improve care.
The process includes gathering information from various sources, including hospitals, social service programs, and most importantly, families who are open to sharing their stories.
Losing a baby is one of the most painful experiences, and every family deserves to have their experience honored with care. Our work is centered on uplifting your story and affirming that it matters. Every story is a call to action; every review is an opportunity to learns and a step toward equity.
Together, we’re creating a future where every baby can thrive, and every family is supported with compassion and care.
Mission
Project Butterfly exists to reduce fetal and infant deaths by examining the circumstances surrounding pregnancy and infant loss, identifying systemic gaps, and driving compassionate, evidence-based solutions.
Through collaboration across healthcare, social services, and community partners, family storytelling, and community engagement, we work to improve services, resources, and outcomes for women, infants, and families—especially those most impacted by inequities.
Vision
A future where every pregnancy is supported, every birth is safe, and every family—regardless of race or circumstance—has equitable access to care, resources, and respect.
We envision a community where systemic barriers are dismantled, Black births are celebrated, and loss is met with empathy, healing, and meaningful change.
History
2020 – Initial Collaboration
In 2020 representatives from Healthy Start, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health and Center for Health Equity, the Allegheny County Health Department, UMPC Magee-Womens Hospital and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh—along with retired neonatologist Dr. Bob Cicco—began meeting to discuss the formation of a FIMR in Allegheny County.
2021 – Case Review Begins
In 2021, the FIMR Case Review Team began reviewing cases and parental interview protocols were developed.
2022 – Community Action Team Activated
The Community Action Team was activated in 2022.
2025 – Project Butterfly Established
The FIMR was officially branded as Project Butterfly in 2025.