AUSTIN, TX - (March 22, 2010) - The March of Dimes is expanding its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Family Support Program by adding a site at Dell Children's NICU - now one of 61 hospitals in the country to be a NICU Family Support site. Austin is now home to 3 sites - the largest number of sites in one city, in the country.
There are approximately 300 newborns and sick babies in the Dell Children's NICU each year. Families often feel lost in that strange new world. NICU Family Support addresses needs during the NICU hospitalization, during the transition home and in the event of a newborn loss. An action committee made up of graduate NICU parents and NICU professionals will be involved in selecting activities and providing direct services to current NICU families. The project also includes a professional development component and educational opportunities. The project will be led by a March of Dimes staff person with experience working with families in crisis.
NICU Family Support is an important component of the March
of Dimes prematurity campaign, an ambitious effort to address
the growing problem of premature birth, which is the leading
cause of newborn death in America. The causes of nearly half of
all premature births are unknown, leaving all families at
risk.
This project is funded in part by the Topfer Family Foundation
and others who gave generously in tribute to Bobbi Topfer's
commitment as a key March of Dimes volunteer. It is important
to note that this is a unique partnership with the Seton Family
of Hospitals.
Seton is proud to have four hospitals – the only hospitals in Central Texas - that have earned the