The program, now in its fifth year, invites parents, families and hospital employees to share their stories about incredible NICUs and NICU staff for the opportunity to become one of 15 hospital recipients nationwide.
This year, nearly 3,600 nominations, including 37 for Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph, were received, according to a program spokeswoman.
“We are honored by the nominations and grateful to receive the donation,” said Jayme McEntire, RN, the NICU’s nurse manager. “The infant seats will be put to good use by our NICU nurses and the parents of the babies in our care.”
The MamaRoo infant seat, which uses gentle variable motions and sound to comfort and soothe babies, is used by hospitals around the country. Children's Miracle Network Hospitals at Ascension Via Christi had previously purchased some of the infant seats for use in the NICU.
"We plan to use them with babies who are awake and need comforting as well as with some of our 'older' babies during developmental playtime," says Sydney Matthews, one of the registered nurses who cares for babies in the NICU.
To learn more about Project Sweet Peas and The Superhero Project and their NICU support, visit projectsweetpeas.com and superheroprojectinc.org.