Tygerberg turns purple for prematurity awareness
VARIOUS medical centres across the world took time out yesterday to celebrate World Prematurity Awareness Month.
Tygerberg hospital joined in the festivities. The hospital’s neonatal wards were draped in purple for premature babies, fondly referred to as preemies.
Spokesperson for Tygerberg Hospital, Laticia Pienaar, said the colour purple not only represented sensitivity but also exceptionality, which the hospital found to be fitting.
The theme for this year’s awareness month was “Together for babies born too soon – Caring for the future”.
“When preemies are born they would not have grown and developed as much as they should have before birth. A baby born three weeks or more before the due date is called premature. It can happen to anyone, irrespective of where we live, our culture or socioeconomic status. These little ones need love and support and World Prematurity Month is our chance to show it.”
“Preemie Month seeks to raise awareness about the challenges and burdens of preterm birth globally. Many preemies face serious lifelong health challenges. It is also a time to reflect on the amazing advances that have been made to improve the outcomes of these tiny human beings and to celebrate the health-care workers and parents who care for them.”
Preemie parent Hannelie Louw said: “My daughter arrived at 27 weeks, on September 21, 2016, after an emergency C-section due to preeclampsia. “She weighed 630g. We named her Hayley Hope Louw and when we saw her face for the first time, it was love at first sight. We saw her fighting spirit and determination, and the amazing doctors and nurses caring for her reassured us that her life would be saved.
“Today, Hayley is 4 years old and weighs 15.8kg. She is doing well and continues to grow.
“We are grateful for each day with our Hayley. I would like to share with my fellow miracle-baby parents that being the parents of a preemie means you are extra special. After all, God doesn’t just pick anybody to witness a miracle,” said Louw. |
Many preemies face serious lifelong health challenges
Laticia Pienaar TYGERBERG HOSPITAL SPOKESPERSON