Celebrating their early arrival into the world, and the care they received in their first weeks and months, “preemies” and their families gathered at Scarborough Health Network (SHN) for a special event to celebrate World Prematurity Day. Families were treated to refreshments, games and activities, as well as prizes and giveaways.

Premature newborns – or preemies – and their families receive specialized care from SHN’s expert team in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), for up to months at a time. SHN has the fourth largest maternal newborn program in Ontario with approximately 6,500 babies born in the health network’s birthing units and nearly 2,000 babies cared for in the NICUs  each year.

World Prematurity Day is a globally-renowned educational event that raises awareness about premature births, while also recognizing and celebrating the lives of preemies and their families. Worldwide, approximately one in 10 babies is born preterm each year.

SHN is so proud of all our preemies and their families – we’re happy to see you grow and thrive!