‘Neonatal Secret Santa’ launched for neonatal families

29 November 2016

‘Neonatal Secret Santa’ launched for neonatal families

The Neonatal Trust is looking to provide a special package to the families with a baby in a neonatal unit on Christmas Day.

Christmas day is a day for families to get together, be together and make memories. While neonatal families would much rather have their precious baby (or babies, in the case of multiples) at home on this special day, they are in the very best place possible for their care.

Justine Brooker, Operations Executive from The Neonatal Trust said “We want to provide a Christmas package to each and every family with a baby in a neonatal unit to brighten their day”

“Through buying in bulk and also with the generous support of some Partner organisations we are looking to provide a special pack to families. However, there are some costs to cover including distribution around the country, packaging, and more.”

“We’d love some support to make this happen, and have set up a special donation page where people can contribute to this initiative and also leave a personal note that will be hand-written into a card to go with the pack”

“Key dates like Christmas Day, Mothers Day and Fathers Day can be particularly tough for families with a baby in hospital. Many who have experienced this directly will understand the emotions and juggle and will look to support others in this this situation”.

Those wanting to learn more and/or support can do so by visiting www.neonataltrust.org.nz/secret-santa

Key statistics:
There are 355 incubators and cots in neonatal units across New Zealand

If the averages play true, there will be 16 babies born premature in New Zealand on Christmas Day.

Babies are classified as premature if they are born before 37 weeks gestation. A normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks.

Approximately 1 in 10 of babies born in New Zealand every year arrive early. That's one every 90 minutes, and over 5,000 in total. Many arrive very early – some as early as 16 weeks early (24 weeks gestation).

Some stays in a neonatal unit last just a few days, others take a very long time. For example, from the personal stories on The Neonatal Trust website www.neonataltrust.org.nz:
* Charlotte, born 23 weeks 3 days, weighing 650grams - 132 days before going home for the first time.
* Samuel, born 23 weeks 3 days, weighing 668 grams - 116 days before going home for the first time.
* Elias, born 24 weeks 5 days, weighing 890 grams (2lb) - 123 days before going home for the first time.

ENDS

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