On Christmas day, in the United Kingdom, over 250 babies will arrive early; each requiring some form of Special Care. Whilst the festivities will go on all around, for the parents of these tiny babies, little else will exist outside the walls of a neonatal unit, where an agonizing vigil will begin – the impact of which is beyond description.
Were it not for the dedication of staff; and the support of charities across the country, the situation faced by parents would undoubtedly be much worse. So as you tuck into your turkey on Christmas day, spare a thought for these families.
In these difficult times, charities are being hit hard by lack of funds; and the role they play in supporting local units is truly invaluable.
As a member of the management team for premature baby charity ADAPT, I have seen firsthand the important role smaller, regional charities play.
ADAPT is a support network for families with babies on the units at Leicester Royal Infirmary and Leicester General Hospital. This support is available when a baby is in a neonatal/special care baby unit and afterwards when the baby is home with his/her family.
Since Leicester Royal Infirmary is a high dependency unit, this support extends to parents from all over the country, who because of the need to transfer babies to hospitals that are better equipped to help, unexpectedly find themselves miles away from home.
ADAPT provides a service to anyone involved with the care of a baby on the neonatal unit and can put you in touch with other parents and families who have been through a similar experience.
Should you wish to talk to an understanding parent who is an empathic listener, or speak to our Family Support Co-ordinator email info@prembabies.co.uk
How to support ADAPT – You can follow the below link to donate money.. Your support is appreciated
Teddy & Me 