Saint Mary’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Hosts Annual Reunion Today to Celebrate the Youngest Survivors

The event is a testament to the remarkable care provided by Saint Mary’s medical professionals to children whose lives have been at severe risk during their first days of life. Even more poignantly, the reunion is an affirmation of the courage and resiliency of children who have survived and thrived despite the often-difficult medical conditions that they experienced as newborns.

According to Kristine Krampe, Nurse Manager of Women and Children’s Services at Saint Mary’s, the reunion allows families to spend time with the nurses and other staff members who stood by them during difficult times.

“This is a very meaningful opportunity for families and care providers to reconnect and share stories and accomplishments,” said Krampe. “It is also helpful for caregivers to see the results of their care and commitment to children who have stayed with them for brief or lengthy periods during their first days of life.”

Staff members of the NICU will attend the event along with volunteers and those who work in Saint Mary’s Respiratory Department, Women and Children’s Services, and various other departments within Saint Mary’s. NICU patients typically are cared for by professionals from several departments at Saint Mary’s.

The reunion begins at 4:00 p.m. and ends at 7:00 p.m. today. Event organizers will have games, prizes and refreshments available for all attendees.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Saint Mary’s is a Level III unit, the highest NICU ranking in the Grand Rapids area. This ranking means Saint Mary’s NICU is equipped to provide treatment for infants who are considered the most at-risk and who require highly sophisticated medical attention. The NICU is staffed by Neonatal Nurse Practitioners along with physicians specializing in the field of Neonatalogy. These specialists are available 24 hours a day for patients who require around-the-clock care.