11/16/2016
WHAT: In partnership with the March of Dimes, the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC will host a Day of Gratitude celebration on World Prematurity Day to raise awareness about preterm birth. NICU grads, along with the clinical staff and nurses who cared for them as infants, will create and distribute cards of encouragement for current NICU families. Hundreds of cards created online by caring individuals and by local March of Dimes families also will be hand-delivered.
WHY: World Prematurity Day is observed on November 17 each year to raise awareness of preterm birth (before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and the concerns of preterm babies and their families. Approximately 15 million babies are born preterm each year, accounting for about one in 10 of all births worldwide. Even babies born a few weeks too soon can face serious health challenges and increased risk for lifelong disabilities including breathing problems, vision loss, cerebral palsy and developmental delays.
WHO:
• NICU patients, former preemies and their families
• Magee NICU staff
• March of Dimes representatives
WHEN: 11:15 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 17
WHERE: Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, 300 Halket St., Pittsburgh, 15213
Note to media: To cover this event, prior arrangements must be made by contacting Courtney Caprara at CapraraCL@upmc.edu or 412-592-8134.
