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Kids reunite with caregivers at hospital event

DOWNERS GROVE - Some weighed less than their mother's handbag when they were born. Today they're happy, healthy babies, toddlers and children whose stay in Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit is but a memory. These little ones and their families shared memories and caught up with their former caregivers at the hospital's annual NICU reunion, held Aug. 30 at the hospital, 3815 Highland Ave.

More than 700 attendees reunited to visit with nurses, physicians and staff. This was the 22nd annual event.

"We enjoy going to the NICU reunion that's held every summer and seeing a lot of the doctors and nurses that cared especially for Jacob but also for our son Carter as well," said Sara Day of Westmont, whose older son, Jacob, spent 28 days in the NICU after he was born five weeks early. "When you come to Good Sam, you're part of the larger Good Samaritan family."

The event featured games, music, food, clowns and a magician. In addition, Leanne Meyers, a neonatal intensive care unit nurse, received the "Babies First" award for her compassion toward the families and the tiny patients she cares for. She has been an integral part of the unit for 14 years.

"It's remarkable to see how these once fragile babies have grown into big toddlers and children," said Dr. Vibha Thaker, a neonatologist on staff at Good Samaritan Hospital.

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