Former NICU families reunite at the Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek

It was an afternoon filled with exciting activities, live music and lots of hugs on Saturday, when more than 200 former patients were reunited with their neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) teams at the Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek Medical Center.

The special event reconnected families with their caregivers during an action-packed event that featured a petting zoo, games, Tae Kwon Do demonstrations, tap dancing and lively Bollywood dancers. NICU staff even joined in the fun while line dancing with the adorable children.

Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek has been hosting these special reunions for years, but had paused them due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The staff was excited to once again have an opportunity to see many of their former patients.

“Having a baby in the NICU is especially stressful for parents and families,” said NICU nurse Miriam Madamba, RN. “A special bond develops between the NICU families and the nurses, doctors, social workers, respiratory therapists, physical therapists who become extended family members.”

In 2019, Liam Oertel was born premature at 25 weeks and remained in the hospital for five months. His brother, Miles, was born at 37 weeks and spent a few days in the NICU. Liam’s mom, Kayla Oertel, is an active participant in the hospital’s Parent Family Advisory Council. Her husband, Dana Oertel, dazzled the crowd as a volunteer musician on Saturday. The Oertels enjoyed reconnecting with Liam’s NICU nurse, Arlene Stavropoulos, RN.

“She’s so loving, and she’s part of our family,” Kayla Oertel said. “These nurses very much loved my babies. Arlene was there for us every step of the way.”

“It’s pretty special when a family entrusts you to take care of their baby,” Stavropoulos said. “It’s wonderful to see everyone again today.”

In 2012, baby Luke Baldomero was born early at just 24 weeks. He stayed in the NICU for seven months but sadly passed away. His siblings, Jude and Izzy, also spent a week in the NICU. In 2021, baby Harmony joined the family and spent three months in the NICU.

“Being in the NICU is so tough, but we had the most caring, impeccable NICU staff,” said Harmony’s mom, Michelle Baldomero. “It’s so great to be here today to reconnect and thank them.”

The Song family also was on site with their daughter, Penny, who was born at 30 weeks. Although their firstborn son, Parker, passed away a few years ago, the family continues to help other parents by donating crocheted octopi, books, journals, stickers and Pokeman toys.

“It’s important to have this reunion for the babies and their families,” said NICU nurse Julita Geislinger, RN. “Our parents look forward to this special occasion every time. It’s rewarding for both the staff and families to reconnect, and to know that our ex-preemies and sickest babies do well and thrive after they leave the Kaiser Permanente Walnut Creek NICU.”