than what you see.”
A Symbol of Both Grief and Love
The purple butterfly is ultimately more than a hospital sticker.
For many families, it can represent a child who was deeply loved even though they did not survive.
At the same time, it can honor the baby who is present and being cared for.
The symbol allows both realities to exist together:
A baby has been lost.
And a baby has survived.
Both children remain part of the family’s story.
Not Every Hospital Uses the Same Symbol
It is important to remember that hospital policies and symbols can vary.
Not every hospital uses a purple butterfly.
The meaning may also differ depending on the hospital, country, or organization.
Therefore, the presence of a purple butterfly should not automatically be interpreted in exactly the same way everywhere.
If you are unsure about a symbol in a hospital, it is best
