UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center

Have you heard the news? UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center has been selected as the beneficiary of the Shaw's Supermarket Community Bag Program!

For the month of September 2024, the Children's Medical Center will receive a $1 donation from each purchase of the $3.00 reusable Community Bag at Shaw’s located at 50 Boston Turnpike Road Shrewsbury MA.

If you’re headed to Shaw’s in Shrewsbury, please consider purchasing a bag … or two. Thank you for your support! All funds received from Shaw’s will go toward patient care for our youngest patients at the Children’s Medical Center. Be sure to tell your friends and family and remember to shop safely!

Five-year-old Levi was diagnosed with an aggressive form of blood cancer in 2022 and required isolation due to a compromised immune system that left him susceptible to infections.

Enter Robin the Robot, who was "hugely important" during Levi's treatment at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center.

Read the story of their special bond in the Worcester Telegram & Gazette:

Central Mass. child fights to beat cancer, with help from a friendly robot Robin is quite the conversationalist, because its programmed with artificial intelligence that is frequently updated with more information.

Meet the Vara triplets, Marissa, Christina and Dante, who spent time at the UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in 1993 after arriving at just 27.5 weeks.

Marissa (left) was the first born of naturally of the trio, weighing 1 pound, 15 ounces.

Next, Christina (middle) arrived via emergency C-section, weighing 1 pound, 11 ounces.

Finally, Dante (right) was born via C-section at 1 pound, 15 ounces.

“I’m so grateful for the nurses and staff they were one of a kind. The care and sympathy they showed everyday was truly a blessing to our family,” explained their mother, Dalia Vara. “Thank you for everyone at UMass Memorial NICU for making our triplets be here today and with a beautiful future.”

More from this past weekend, because it was one for the books!

UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center's NICU celebrated 50 years of innovation, caring, and tiny miracles with a party at the EcoTarium.

The space was filled with joy as nurses, NICU grads (up to 49 years old!) and their families reunited and marked this special occasion.

NICU Co-chief Dr. Wendy Timpson remarked about how wonderful it was to be there with NICU graduates and families "who strike awe in us with their strength and determination" and the incredibly dedicated NICU caregivers.

The event was free for attendees thanks to sponsorships from Coastal Medical Transportation Systems, Kelleher & Sadowsky, Prolacta Bioscience, and Nothing Bundt Cakes in Shrewsbury.

It’s National Dog Day 🐶 🐾

Today, we celebrate Valentina, a full-time caregiver at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center.

Thank you to the Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation for helping bring joy to kids with their support of the Animal Assisted Therapy program.

Want to help support Valentina?

DONATE HERE: https://bit.ly/3cpSuOg

Tonight at the EcoTarium in Worcester, we’re celebrating 50 years of compassionate care and thousands of tiny miracles at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit!

Thank you to all the patients, families, caregivers (past and present), and donors who spent the evening celebrating this very special milestone with us. Our hearts are full and we’re so thankful to be a part of your story.

Our NICU team uses innovation combined with compassion to treat the tiniest patients in the region. In our relentless pursuit of healing, our NICU has earned a national reputation for its family-centered care philosophy where families are an important part of each child's team.

You can learn all about our NICU here:
https://www.ummhealth.org/umass-memorial-medical-center/services-treatments/childrens-medical-center/z-list-pediatric-services/neonatal-intensive-care-nicu

Claudia Gomez was born in 1999, weighing just over 2 pounds.

"She was a patient in the NICU for two months and I remembered they had a wall with pictures of premature babies at birth and then later in their life," Claudia’s mother, Violeta explained. "It was such a blessing to see that there was hope for tiny-tiny babies to grow and become healthy and happy adults."

Claudia, 24, is now an accredited translator for Japanese, English and Romanian.

"I am very proud of her and extremely grateful to the medical team at UMass Memorial Medical Center's NICU,” Violeta said.

Meet Suzanne Allen, CPNP, a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Adolescent Medicine at our UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center.

"I was motivated to become a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) so I could help adolescents navigate through this often bumpy developmental stage where research indicates that they are more likely to be successful, healthy and happy if they have at least one positive adult relationship outside of their immediate family.

As a PNP providing primary health care to teens, I get to form a longitudinal relationship with adolescents where they know they can access health care and anticipatory guidance in a safe and confidential setting. Additionally, my role as an adolescent medicine specialist allows me to provide health care services to teens and their families often in times of crisis such as the management of acute GYN issues or eating disorders.

My favorite part of the job is connecting with kids and families and seeing things 'click' in my patient's cognition as they realize how a change in their thoughts and behaviors can positively impact their physical and mental health.

The memorable moment of my career has been when a former patient got back in touch with me to share stories of success, many of whom have pursued careers in nursing.

I love working at UMass Memorial Health because of the collaboration and collegiality between the health care providers in pediatrics. Not only do I feel that we share a mission and support one another, we can have fun working together even though our work is hard.

When I'm not working, I can often be seen cycling or hiking on the roads and trails of Central Mass with my family and my dog."

What can we say, Suzanne? We're so lucky to have you here as one of our amazing caregivers, working so hard to provide great, compassionate care.

UMass Memorial Medical Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will celebrate 50 years on Aug. 25

Todd Bishop, one of our earliest NICU success stories, was admitted into the brand new NICU nearly 50 years ago in September 1974. He says every year of life is special knowing he started it with being given last rites.

Hear more on this inspiring patient story now on Spectrum News 1 Worcester: https://bit.ly/4ds7KV1

Last month, the Worcester Red Sox highlighted our pediatric patient, Annaliese Black, during the Home Run for Life ceremony. The Home Run for Life program is a heartwarming initiative where the team celebrates and honors a pediatric patient each year who has overcome significant medical challenges.

During the game at Polar Park Annaliese and her family were invited to the field where she was celebrated and recognized in front of the entire stadium for her courage and perseverance. Annaliese was able to "hit" a symbolic home run and run the bases, accompanied by cheers and encouragement from the crowd. It’s a symbolic gesture that represents overcoming obstacles and achieving personal victories.

We're so amazed and inspired by you, Annaliese!

UMass Memorial's Home Run for Life - Worcester Red Sox - 2024 The Worcester Red Sox had the opportunity to meet Annaliese Black and learn about her courageous battle before inviting her to Polar Park to hit a Home Run f...

Thank you Vernon Hill American Legion Post 435 and everyone who participated in the 4th annual Lego Ride!

At UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center, we know kids. We know they have unique physical and mental health needs separate from adults. We know that one-size-fits-all is not how health care works.

LEARN MORE: https://bit.ly/3ZVmIvs

This August, UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center is celebrating 50 years of compassionate care and thousands of tiny miracles in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Abby Wright spent 16 weeks in the UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center NICU after being born at 1lb, 5 oz. She was so small, her mother's wedding ring could fit comfortably on her arm, as seen in the photo.

"We never imagined this would be how we would spend our first months as new parents, but the staff at the NICU were so supportive we felt they were an extension of our family," explained Abby's mother, Erin. "Every holiday, every milestone was celebrated. The nursing staff, especially, were so kind and loving during what was the most stressful time in our lives, yet they made us feel involved in Abby’s care, which helped us get through the long stay.

She went on, "The NICU is not where you’d ever plan to end up when thinking about the early days with your newborn, but we are incredibly grateful and appreciative we had such amazing care for Abby and for us as first time parents."

Erin encourages NICU parents to stay focused on each day.

"Stay positive by celebrating and reflecting on the wins of the day. It can be a long journey, but staying focused on the present really helped us get through each day."

Come celebrate the NICU 50th anniversary with us! RSVP by August 15: ummhealth.org/NICU50th

This August, UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center is celebrating 50 years of compassionate care and thousands of tiny miracles in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

One inspiring story is that of Derrick Bonsu.

Derrick was born in 2002, weighing just 1 pound, 8 ounces after his mother, Jen Bonsu, experienced HELLP Syndrome at just 28 weeks gestation.

"Having a NICU baby changes everything in what you expect being a parent should be like. I like to think that our NICU babies are warriors, but not only just because of their strength at birth, but also their paths afterwards," said Jen.

Derrick spent a total of three months in the UMass Memorial Medical Center NICU where he experienced a number of complications during his stay, including brain bleeds, infections, lung development issues, bradycardia and feeding issues.

"Even in the most stressful of situations, the NICU staff always were calm and supportive, and they truly helped us to regulate ourselves when things felt unmanageable. When we faced new milestones, like holding, bathing, and feeding, they offered us the encouragement that we needed to feel confident in taking on those tasks with such a tiny baby," she said. "They truly gave us skills that will stay with us forever. The NICU team will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work."

Derrick is now attending college at Framingham State University where he is majoring in biology.

"I'm happy to say that today Derrick is flourishing as a young adult. He is smart (he loves history and genetics), thoughtful, and one of the most caring people you could ever meet. Regardless of the challenges he faces, he is ALWAYS smiling."

Derrick's mother describes the experience as "a blur," but says they are stronger and more resilient as a family.

"I think every single family of a NICU baby should be proud of how much they have overcome. The parents and families of our little ones are also stronger because of our experiences, and I truly want each of them to know I see them, and I see their resilience as well."

Come celebrate the NICU 50th anniversary with us! RSVP by August 15: ummhealth.org/NICU50th

Someone is ready to watch the 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony tonight!

Check out our amazing patient’s Olympic rings made out of paper plates. We’re impressed!

We love our partnership with Rodman for Kids and the impact it will make our our community.

YOU can donate to help support the UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center team in the 2024 Rodman Ride for Kids by donating here: https://bit.ly/3Wga9ux

Partner Highlight Friday: Rodman for Kids & UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center 🚴‍♂️❤️

Today, we’re excited to shine a light on our incredible partnership with UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center and share a heartwarming story of impact. 🌟

A dedicated member of the Injury Prevention Team recently visited the Emergency Department with a special delivery—a bike helmet for a young patient. This child had come in with (thankfully) non-serious injuries from a bike accident, but didn't have a helmet for future rides. Thanks to the generous support from Rodman for Kids' event sponsorship last year, this patient is now heading home with a brand-new helmet—essentially a prescription for safety! 🚴‍♀️🛡️

This story exemplifies the essence of our mission: to provide resources and opportunities that protect and empower our youth. Through partnerships like this, we’re making a tangible difference in the lives of children and their families.

We are incredibly proud of our partnership with UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center and grateful for their dedication to child safety and wellbeing. Together, we’re creating a safer, healthier future for all kids.

To learn more about our Charity Partner Program, visit https://www.rodmanforkids.org/about/leadership-development-resources-community/

UPDATE: Due to unforeseen circumstances, this weekend’s exercise class fundraiser needs to be postponed. We are grateful for the community’s enthusiasm and support, and will be looking for a date in the fall.

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Cressey Sports Performance - MA is hosting their second annual charity bootcamp class in support of Animal Assisted Therapy at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center!

What an amazing moment at Polar Park.

Every year, about 26,000 head injuries are caused by bicycle injuries and about 87% of the time the child wasn't wearing a helmet.

With help from a Rodman for Kids donation, UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center has been able to launch a new initiative to help educate families on the importance of helmet safety. If a child comes into the hospital with any injury from a bike or scooter accident, caregivers will provide them with a new helmet and help them adjust the straps to ensure they leave with a helmet that fits appropriately.

Learn more from Spectrum News 1 Worcester:

UMass helmet distribution program aims to increase use of the safety equipment Dr. Green says about 26,000 head injuries a year are caused by bicycle injuries and about 87% of the time the child wasn't wearing a helmet.

A child's body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult's. When a child is left in a vehicle, that child's temperature can rise quickly — and the situation can quickly become dangerous.

Learn more from NHTSA: https://bit.ly/3xwbu8r

Did you know?: Massachusetts law requires anyone under the age of 16 to wear a secured, approved, fitted helmet when operating a bicycle, in-line skates, a skate board, a scooter or other manually-propelled wheeled vehicle.

Our Injury Prevention Center explains how to make sure your child is wearing a helmet that fits properly.

Our friends at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center celebrated Pride Month with ice cream and artistic creativity!

It's a great day for an iced coffee!

Thursday, June 20th is Dunkin' annual Iced Coffee Day! $1 from each iced coffee and cold brew sold at participating locations will go to children’s hospitals including our own UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center.

Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation and local franchisees have generously supported Valentina, Kids Comfort Promise, the Xboxes in pedi patient rooms on 5E, mobile gaming for day surgery spaces, and Robin the Robot in recent years. So treat yourself (and your friends, family, and coworkers) to iced coffee on June 20th and make an extra difference for our pediatric patients!

Our caregivers found a refreshing way to cool down during this super steamy day in Massachusetts!

Today, UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center wants to thank Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation — and local franchisees — for all their continued support!

For years now, Dunkin' has supported our Children's Medical Center, including funding for our sweet therapy pup, Valentina, our Kid's Comfort Promise, and the lovable, Robin the Robot! Our gratitude is truly endless.

Dunkin' set up outside University's Remillard lobby today, serving out complimentary iced coffee and donut!

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Don't forget 👉 This Thursday, June 20th, is Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day, where $1 from every iced coffee sold will be donated to Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation to bring joy to kids at local children’s hospitals like UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center!

Mark your calendars! Next Thursday is Dunkin' Iced Coffee Day!

The Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation is teaming up with Dunkin’ to kick off the First Day of Summer by making a difference! Thursday, June 20th, is Dunkin’ Iced Coffee Day where $1 from every iced coffee sold will be donated to the Joy In Childhood Foundation to to kids at local children’s hospitals like UMass Memorial Medical Center.

Massachusetts artist Dominic Quagliozzi was just three months old when he was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. It was in Room 555 at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center where he taught himself how to paint with the assistance of Bob Ross painting tutorials.

Quagliozzi's art, on display at Worcester Art Museum until June 21, represents his long medical journey and appreciation for the caregivers who watched over him.

'Home for me is making art': Central Mass. artist living with cystic fibrosis shares his medical odyssey through art Artist Quagliozzi didn’t think he would live past the age of 40 after being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was 3 months old.

It's Teddy Bear Clinic day at UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center and there was no way Saturday's rain was going to put a damper on all the fun that was in store!

With countless interactive booths, excited families and children, knowledgable caregivers and generous community members... it was the perfect recipe for a beary memorable event!

Thank you to all involved in making this event truly extraordinary for each and every kid!

104.5 XLO Worcester Police Department (Official) UMass Memorial Medical Center Worcester Fire Department