The Ulster Hospital’s Neonatal ‘book nook’ received a bumper donation from a Crossgar family as a way to say thank you for the exceptional love and care their son received while in the Unit.
Heather and Declan McCormick explained how their little boy Travis was admitted to the Unit in September 2022.
“Travis was slightly premature and had fluid in his lungs,” said Heather. “The Nurses in the Neonatal Unit were amazing at keeping myself and my husband updated on Travis’ progress, especially Stephy Joseph who was Travis’s main carer most days, she was so gentle and loving towards him.”
The McCormick family donated 30 books ranging from such well-loved classics as Julia Donaldson’s Snail and the Whale, David McKee’s Elmer the Patchwork Elephant and Eric Carle’s Hungry Caterpillar.
Heather continued, “When leaving the Neonatal Unit the family were given a story book, Owl Babies by Martin Waddell, with a sticker on it to say that it had been donated by a Neonatal baby and his family. We thought this was a beautiful idea and we decided we would do the same.”
“Travis is now two-years-old and has went from a tiny, jaundiced boy surrounded by wires and beeping machines, to a playful, funny boy who loves reading his books to his little brother Jake.”
“We can’t thank the Neonatal team enough for helping Travis and giving us the support we needed at such a tough time.”
Neonatal Infant Feeding Lead Cathy Flinn shared how lovely it is to see their book nook flourish.
“Over the past number of months our book donations have really grown with thanks to wonderful families like the McCormick’s who have very kindly given back to other Neonatal families facing a similar journey to theirs.”
Cathy continued, “Each family can choose a book which is theirs to keep forever. These books are turning into treasured keepsakes for our Neonatal families!”
“Reading to your baby while in the Unit and beyond promotes vital bonding with your baby and offers your baby comfort through familiar voices and siblings, grandparents can get involved too. We hope our families will enjoy reading the books to their little ones while they are with us.”
