On Friday, June 20, Jamaica Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) held its 10th annual Preemie Party. The party, which celebrates pre-term babies treated in the NICU, was attended by over 50 babies this year and included food, face painting, balloons, bubbles, and costume characters.
All invited children, ranging from six months to ten years old, were described by Dr. Ajey Jain, Directory of Neonatology, as “remarkable". Dr Jain was especially pleased with the progress of two of his former patients, Raj Kumar and Zachary Menendez. Raj was born at 24 weeks, weighing only 500 grams and Zachary was born at 24-25 weeks gestation. Both are now doing great.
While the children ran playfully throughout the auditorium, NICU physicians, nurses, and staff watched, amazed with how much the children have grown. “We’re always curious about the babies that have spent time in the NICU and this party gives us a chance to see how well they have progressed,” explained Sherley Verela, Clinical Nurse Manager in the NICU. “It’s like a reunion… it’s exactly that…our family reunion and it feels great knowing that the children are doing well.”
The parents also enjoy the reunions as it gives them an opporunity to share heartfelt stories and feelings. “This party is really special and something we try not to miss,” explained Mrs. Jairam, whose daughter was born prematurely, weighing a mere two pounds. “We love getting together with other families and their children. It’s really nice to interact with parents who went through the same things we did.”