Words cannot describe the feeling one had when attending Plantation General Hospital’s (PGH) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Reunion at Nova Southeastern University Rick Case Arena in early May. However, words to describe those in attendance would be positive attitude, optimism, perseverance, and courage. These quality characteristics got all of them through the most difficult times when their babies were born and needed highly specialized medical treatment.
Many participated in the March of Dimes walk prior to coming to the annual event celebrating nearly 1,600 children born at Plantation General Hospital. It was the perfect segue and opportunity to gather with other families who shared similar journeys and stories. Over 100 former patients and their families were able to reconnect with the doctors, nurses, and staff who cared and nurtured them so genuinely during their first stages of life.
The Plantation General Hospital NICU is renowned for their excellent care, outstanding Level III facility, patient education, and compassion. Teaching patients on topics such as breastfeeding techniques, sleeping positions during their “Back to Sleep” program, and celebrating National Kangaroo Month which promotes skin to skin contact with mothers with infants in the NICU are just a few significant issues that reign supreme.
“Our nurses’ dedication what makes PGH NICU stand out from other hospitals. Their loyalty not only to PGH but to their moms and babies,” exclaimed Raquel Alderman, Director of Marketing for Plantation General Hospital. “We are Level III NICU, which means we have newborns as small as 22 weeks gestation. Breastfeeding is our number top priority, and we have two dedicated LC NICU consultants to assist and teach new mothers.”
Anyone who attended the grand celebration could feel the love and happiness that surrounded the space. A magician, DJ, and face painter were sure to entertain and celebrate these little champions. The smiles were contagious and the laughter infectious as the children enjoyed snacks and played games with each other and those that took such great care of them before they graduated from the NICU.
