There are challenges enough with pregnancy, birth and parenthood but some families have an added challenge when their baby is born early.
Today, Tuesday, 17 November is World Prematurity Day, a day to raise awareness of preterm birth and celebrate our little ones who arrive early into the world.
This year, to acknowledge babies born early and the health challenges they can face as they grow up, Lismore Base Hospital has turned purple.
World Prematurity Day began in 2011 to help shine a light on the risk and hardships created by premature births and to show support and compassion for the families who have experienced preterm birth throughout the world.
Every year, landmarks and iconic buildings around the world are lit up in purple to mark the occasion.
At Lismore Base Hospital, around 60 percent of the babies admitted to Special Care Nursery are preterm, or born before 37 weeks.
Nursing Unit Manager, Jo Ezzy leads a team of dedicated midwives and nurses who care for these most vulnerable patients.
‘Premature babies do have a rough start, but thanks to medical science, technology and equipment they can have great health outcomes,’ said Ms Ezzy.
‘The generosity of the community through Our Kids, has meant that we’re able to provide the latest equipment and comfort to families and babies in Lismore, getting them off to a great start.
‘It’s lovely to celebrate World Prematurity Day and turn the hospital purple as our way of saying thanks.’
The Lismore Base Hospital will stay purple all this week.
For more information about Our Kids, please call 6620 2705.
Wow ! no really, Wow !
Alethea Scholl you are my hero, it’s so good to hear that you have support , when my daughter was born at 28 weeks thirty plus years ago there was no support. Good news is she is fine now and except for the Mater Hospital negligently burning out her lenses with UV light she has survived the ordeal, and my Soul Parenting with great humour and success. Three fills me with trepidation, so wishing you the greatest of good ,
Cheers G”)