By Redaccion
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Cottage Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) held its biennial Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) reunion at the Santa Barbara Zoo on Sunday, September 29.
Nearly 800 NICU graduates and their families gathered to reconnect with the medical team that supported them during their time in the unit.
The NICU reunion offers families the opportunity to reunite with the nurses, doctors, therapists, and hospital staff who were part of their NICU experience. For the Cottage team, it’s a chance to see the growth and development of the children they once cared for and reconnect with the families they came to know well.
“The NICU reunion is a highly anticipated event for our team,” said Karen Rose, NICU manager. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see these children, who once needed extra care, now thriving. Reconnecting with them and their families is truly special.”
At this year’s reunion, families enjoyed a day full of activities. There was face painting, music, a bounce house, visits from Star Wars characters, and time to explore the zoo. Cottage Trauma Services were also present, offering fun educational activities for families about car seat safety and safe sleep practices.
American Medical Response of Santa Barbara brought an ambulance, allowing children to climb aboard, explore the equipment, and learn about emergency medical services from an emergency medical technician.
The Children’s Miracle Network, which raises funds for CCMC services, had a booth with crafts for the children.
The Haselton Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at CCMC is a Level III NICU that provides advanced care for premature and critically ill newborns. As the leading neonatal care provider on the Central Coast, CCMC is committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for every baby and family.
For more information about the Haselton Family Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and other Cottage Children’s Medical Center services, visit cottagehealth.org/childrens.
