Small joy

My boy in the NICU

If you're a reader of The Daze of My Life, you'll know that my little boy was born 6.5 weeks premature just two months ago. His early arrival opened my eyes to the world of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and the stress and worry a premature baby can bring.

November is Prematurity Awareness Month. Did you know that a premature baby is born every 12 minutes in Australia? Prematurity is the leading cause of death in newborns? Some premature babies can spend months in NICU and special care nurseries, this can be a completely overwhelming and stressful time for parents.

There are support groups and parent groups that are trying to help parents as well as give back to the NICUs that helped them.

Life's Little Treasures is a national charity that provides support  and information to parents of premmies.
On Novmber 4, they will hold the "Walk for Prems" fun run/walk to raise much-needed funds. Walks are being held in Melbourne, Shepparton, Sydney, Perth, Hobart & Adelaide. Click here for details on how to join in.

A group close to my heart is Little Wonder which is a fundraising and support committee for RPA's Newborn Care Unit. The group's president Jody Beddoes says: “The birth of a premature baby is an overwhelming and traumatic experience. In those first few days, virtually every agonising minute of every hour is spent watching your baby struggle for life.”


Jody decided to start Little Wonder to give back to the incredible carers and services of the Newborn Care Unit that supported her. I can vouch that the staff and the work they do is simply amazing and it's something really worthwhile to get behind. The unit relies on support from the community to ensure they continue the work that they do,


Little Wonder also support and offer friendship to parents whose babies are being cared for. Father's Day fell during our time in the unit, we were delighted to find a gift and card next to D's crib on that Sunday - it was a lovely book and card to Skip with D's footprint stamped on it. Little Wonder provided both.  It was a bright moment in otherwise difficult time and it really can make a difference.


If you'd like to support Little Wonder they have a seminar  by Leanne Cooper for expectant and new parents on what to feed your baby. It's on Monday October 31 from 10am - 12pm at Petersham Town Hall. Tickets are $20 at the door or $18 online at www.greentix.com.au


Another way to help is purchase Christmas cards, which is what my family and friends will be receiving this year. Packs of 10 are just $6.50, email rpalittlewonder@hotmail.com to place an order. Or visit their Facebook page (click on shop at the side of their page).
Thanks!