When Thobile Nxumalo first saw her twins in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Netcare The Bay Hospital, she was struck by how tiny and fragile they were. Overwhelmed by love and concern, she navigated those early days with the support of attentive doctors and nurses.
Recently, those once vulnerable twins returned to the hospital for a World Prematurity Day celebration, where they joined other "graduated" preemies for a gathering to celebrate their progress and resilience. The event marked an important milestone for these families, highlighting the journey from fragility to strength.
| Phumelele Xulu (Mum) and Sister Phumelele Nxumalo (NICU unit manager) |
| Sister Nxumalo (NICU Unit Manager), proud parents Mrs Khumbuzile and Mr Mjiyako Mdletshe, Matron Luleka Mhlauli, and Sister Zwane (NICU Registered Nurse) share the joy of the graduated twins' journey. |
| Phumelele Xulu (mum) and Sister Nomvula Mthembu (ED unit manager) led a vital CPR education session for mothers. |
"Looking at them now, it's hard to believe they were ever so tiny and delicate," says Thobile, watching her twins exploring everything around them with curious eyes. "The NICU team became like family during those challenging first weeks, helping us find strength and hope."
"Each baby who leaves our unit takes a piece of our hearts. Seeing them thrive and grow – it's why we do what we do," shares Nursing Services Manager, Luleka Mhlauli.
The recent celebration wasn't just about reunions. In a corner of the room, Sister Nomvula Mthembu and Sister Phumelele Nxumalo led CPR training sessions, their patient demonstrations drawing clusters of attentive parents. "Knowledge is power. We want our families to feel confident caring for their little ones long after they leave our walls," explains Sister Mthembu.
According to Deon Smith, the hospital's general manager, this isn't just a hospital event – it's a celebration of community. "Every baby here represents a journey we've taken together, a family we've supported, and a future we've helped secure."
As the celebrations continued, parents swapped stories over refreshments and cake, their children – once so fragile – now filled with boundless energy.
"We may be a hospital, but days like today remind us that we're really in the business of nurturing dreams and building futures – one tiny warrior at a time," concludes Smith.
Ends
Notes to editors
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a) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10029276/#:~:text=The%20overall%20prevalence%20of%20CKD,the%20study%20participants%20%5B21%5D