The Brayden Buntemeyer Fund

The Brayden Buntemeyer Fund supports families facing infant loss at MercyOne Genesis Medical Center, Davenport.

Each new life, no matter how fragile or brief, forever changes the world.

The Brayden Buntemeyer Fund honors the life of Brayden Buntemeyer, the son of Jenny and Jess Buntemeyer, who was born sleeping on October 21, 2011. On the morning of October 21, Jess woke up and knew something was wrong. On that day, Jess and Jenny’s ultimate fears were realized. At a 30-week ultrasound it was found the cord that nourished him and kept him alive is also what took his life from him. After a long labor and delivery, Jess and Jenny met their perfect son. As they held him, they promised him that his life would have meaning, that they wouldn’t let this break them, that they would make him proud. Jess and Jenny have made good on that promise, honoring his memory by serving others through the Brayden Buntemeyer Fund. light.

Supporting Families Facing Infant Loss 

The Brayden Buntemeyer Fund supports families facing infant loss at MercyOne Genesis Medical Center, Davenport. Funds are used to provide emotional support to families, create special memories families will cherish forever, and ensure compassionate and loving care for the infants and families we serve.

No Foot Too Small Birthing + Bereavement Suite: A sacred space to ease the burden of empty arms.

In 2021, MercyOne Genesis Foundation and No Foot Too Small partnered together to build the nation’s third No Foot Too Small Birthing + Bereavement Suite at Genesis Medical Center, Davenport. The No Foot Too Small Birthing + Bereavement Suite is designed to serve and comfort families experiencing miscarriage, stillbirth, fetal and infant loss. The suite includes a labor and delivery room and a waiting area for family and friends, including a kitchenette and a spa-like bathroom. This is a private and comfortable suite where babies will be welcomed into the world and loved, and then families can say goodbye. This initiative was led by Jess & Jenny Buntemeyer, Dr. Lyndsey & Kyle Day, and Dana & Dr. Mark Wilkinson.

"We are deeply humbled by this project that has come from the hearts of many shattered by the loss of their child, reaching out to touch the hearts of those who will someday walk this road and to help them carry the incredible weight that burdens empty arms." - Dr. Lyndsey Day