Funds raised through this year's hike will support essential equipment and resources that improve care for babies in the NICU and help families during and after their hospital journey. 

Bili Blankets 

Some babies are born for the spotlight! Jaundice is a common complication in newborns, especially preemies, causing a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Gentle phototherapy helps clear toxins from a baby's bloodstream while their liver catches up to the task. While treatment is often provided through special overhead lamps, bili blankets allow babies to continue receiving therapy while enjoying precious skin-to-skin cuddles with their parents. 

Transport Incubators 

Transport incubators help keep NICU babies safe, warm, and comfortable when they need to travel beyond the unit for specialized imaging, testing, or procedures. These mobile units provide a stable environment for fragile newborns, ensuring continuity of care wherever they need to go within the hospital. 

Diaper Support for Families 

A NICU stay can place significant financial strain on families. The NICU's Veteran Parent Support Partner estimates that as many as 75% of NICU families experience some degree of economic hardship during their baby's hospitalization. While diapers are provided during a baby's stay in the NICU, many families continue to face challenges after discharge. Funds raised will help provide a supply of diapers for low-income and vulnerable families as they transition home, helping ease financial pressures and giving babies a healthier start in life. 

Together, with your support, we hope to raise $40,000 to provide innovative care, essential equipment, and practical resources that make a meaningful difference for NICU babies and their families, both in hospital and at home. From bili blankets that support bonding during treatment, to transport incubators that safely move fragile newborns for specialized care, to diaper support that helps families after discharge, every dollar raised helps give these tiny patients the strongest possible start in life. 

Thank you for your generous support.