Having a newborn hospitalized due to premature birth or medical issues can be frightening and overwhelming for parents. The March of Dimes’ NICU Family Support Program at Regional Medical Center has been easing that fear and anxiety for 10 years. This successful partnership was celebrated at the Night of Purple, held on November 21.

The Night of Purple commemorated the partnership between the March of Dimes and Regional One Health to provide valuable support to NICU families. Program leaders instrumental in bringing the NICU Family Support Program to life, as well as those who have worked to sustain the program, were honored for their support. Awards were also given to outstanding volunteers, parents and donors.

The NICU Family Support Program provides information and support programs for families while their child is in the hospital and beyond. The program also provides ongoing education for hospital staff. The NICU at Regional Medical Center is the only NICU in the region with a March of Dimes’ NICU Family Support Specialist on site. Together, Regional One Health and the March of Dimes have provided support to more than 8,000 families and invested more than $500,000 to NICU families receiving care at Regional Medical Center.