Imagine standing at the intersection of grief and determination, where every heartbeat echoes the loss of a loved one. Twenty-two years ago, I found myself there, a lost mother grappling with the unthinkable tragedy of children losing their lives to window-covering cords. As I searched for answers, I felt as if I were wandering through a foggy forest—every step forward shrouded in uncertainty and desperation. In a world where the internet was just a flicker of what it is today, I turned to my local library, hoping to find a beacon of light.

In that library, I stumbled upon “It’s No Accident: How Corporations Sell Dangerous Baby Products” by Marla Felcher. Reading that book was like uncovering a hidden map that revealed the dark underbelly of the infant products industry. Felcher’s year-long investigation unveiled a troubling reality: manufacturers, including giants like Hasbro and Graco, were more concerned with profits than the safety of our children. Each case she presented felt like a punch to the gut—a reminder that behind every statistic lay a child’s life and a family’s heartache.

Through Marla’s words, I discovered Kids In Danger (KID), a lifeline founded by University of Chicago professors Linda Ginzel and Boaz Keysar who had faced their unimaginable loss. Danny lost his life in a pack-n-play. Their mission resonated deeply within me, igniting a flicker of hope. I remember picking up the phone and calling KID, my heart racing as I explained my story to Nancy Cowles, the Executive Director. It was as if I had finally found a kindred spirit, someone who understood the urgency of my plea. Nancy became my guiding star, illuminating a path toward advocacy that I never knew existed.

Before I knew it, I was sharing my story at the International Consumer Product Health and Safety Organization (ICPHSO) conference, standing among experts ready to help me navigate the complex world of product safety. It felt like I was stepping into a new chapter of my life, one where my voice could create ripples of change. Nancy emphasized that our fight was not merely against companies; it was against a system that prioritized profit over safety. 

As we worked together, I realized that advocacy is not just about pointing fingers; it’s about building bridges. Together, we connected with others who shared our mission, creating a network of change-makers dedicated to preventing needless tragedies.

After 26 years, KID has made an indelible mark on the landscape of child safety.  Their work was not just a fight; it was a heartfelt commitment to honoring the memory of children like Danny, who deserved to grow up in a safer world.  With a heavy heart, I learned that KID would be closing its doors, a bittersweet moment to reflect on the victories achieved and the lives saved. 

While the organization’s physical presence may fade, the spirit of advocacy lives on through the parents who have been inspired to continue this vital work. We carry forward the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child can play, learn, and grow in safety.

As we bid farewell to KID, I am filled with gratitude for Nancy Cowles and the countless advocates who have walked alongside me on this journey. Their passion and dedication have created a legacy that will not be forgotten. Though the road ahead may be challenging, I trust that our collective efforts will continue to illuminate the path toward a safer future for our children.

Thank you, KID! Thank you, Nancy Cowles—your lifesaving advocacy will be sorely missed, but your impact will resonate through generations.

Beyond Kids In Danger: Organizations for Child Safety Advocacy