Owensboro Health NICU Reunion Lets Parents Say Thanks

The Owensboro Health NICU Reunion is a heartwarming event that brings together families who have experienced the journey of having their babies cared for in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. One such family is Katy and Jason Harrison, who had twins Eva and Jay in the NICU back in 2011. Katy shared her emotional story, starting from the challenging pregnancy where she had frequent ultrasounds to monitor the babies' health. At 32 weeks, a routine visit turned into an unexpected delivery, marking the beginning of a five-week NICU stay with newborns weighing just 2 pounds, 11 ounces and 3 pounds, 13 ounces.

Despite the initial struggles, both Eva and Jay thrived under the care of the NICU nurses, reaching milestones and growing stronger each day. “I knew they were in the right place,” she said. “And I knew they were being taken care of in a way that even though I was their mom, I couldn't take care of them yet.”

Today, at almost 13 years old, the twins look like any other pre-teens. “Jay is a soccer player. He's one of the most aggressive, competitive, passionate and emotional children I've ever met,” Katy said. “Eva has reached all of her milestones as well. She's a really passionate dancer. They both excel in school and they are very social.”

Katy expressed her gratitude for the dedicated nurses who not only cared for her babies but also supported her through the difficult time.

“Looking back, I would say there was some postpartum stuff going on,” Katy said. ”I did not recognize it, but I feel like the nurses probably recognized it and they were strong enough to say ‘you need to go home. You need to take a break. You need to go eat.’ So, I really did appreciate that. Even though they were there for my babies. They were really good to me as well.”

The annual NICU reunion holds a special place in their hearts, allowing the family to show appreciation, share their children's progress, and reunite with the team that played a crucial role in their development. Katy and Jason make an effort to bring the children to each one. As Jay and Eva prepare to attend the upcoming reunion as almost teenagers, it signifies a full-circle moment where they can express their own gratitude and appreciation for the compassionate care they received during their fragile beginning.

After a four-year break due to the pandemic, the NICU Reunion returns to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital this April. The NICU team looks forward to seeing everyone who has RSVP'd for the event.

The NICU Reunion is a poignant reminder of resilience, hope and the enduring bond between families and the dedicated healthcare professionals who support them through their NICU challenges.

About the NICU

If your newborn needs special care, he or she may stay in Owensboro Health Regional Hospital’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The largest of its kind in the region, our NICU can tend to babies of any weight born as early as 27 weeks of gestation. Your infant will benefit from neonatal experts while you stay close to your home and support system. Learn more at OwensboroHealth.org/NICU.