In collaboration with the awesome Kidz First NICU team, we threw a graduation party like no other! Over 100 families and their superhero toddlers came together over the weekend to celebrate their child's journey and commemorate World Prematurity Day.
This World Prematurity Day, we honoured our NICU 'graduates' with a gathering for their
families. There were games, face painting, dancing, and a BBQ - put on by the generous team at Leonards and Compass catering who donated yummy sausages and burgers for the celebration. Most importantly there were families reunited who had experienced their journeys alongside each other in the neonatal unit, as well as with their wonderful Kidz First Staff members whom they formed a strong bond as they spent many months together during a scary and stressful time. It was truly a day of celebrating community and the success of our premature babies' strength and resilience who have grown into energetic toddlers and older.
Premature birth, occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy, poses potential health complications for the baby. A significant 10% of newborns fall into this category, with Middlemore Hospital's Neonatal Care Unit admitting 1500 babies annually, making it the country's busiest facility. On the wards, we had a market day with stalls providing support to our families, all of whom look forward to attending next year's party with their little graduate.
We would like to acknowledge the awesome Kidz First Neonatal Unit for their commitment to our families. The love shared with their patients was clear to see by the joy on our families faces to be reunited. Learn more about World Prematurity Day and the neonatal unit in this video -