NICU Graduates Celebrated at Marian Regional Medical Center’s Annual Reunion

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – October 26, 2024 –  Dignity Health’s Marian Regional Medical Center (MRMC) hosted its annual Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Reunion on Saturday, bringing together hundreds of families and hospital personnel for a heartwarming celebration of life and resilience. 

The annual event provided a special opportunity for families to reconnect with the dedicated nurses, doctors, and staff members who cared for their precious little ones during their stay in Marian’s NICU.  The reunion featured a variety of activities for all ages, including face painting, crafts, a photo booth, food, and music. 

“This reunion is a testament to the incredible strength and resilience of our NICU families,” said Dr. Rocky Greer, Medical Director of Neonatology at Marian Regional Medical Center. “It’s a joy to see these children, who once needed specialized care, thriving and growing alongside their families. We are incredibly proud of the work our NICU team does to provide the highest level of care to our tiniest patients – it's truly a privilege to serve these families and our community as a whole."

The annual NICU reunion has become a cherished tradition at MRMC, offering a sense of community and support for families who have experienced the challenges and triumphs of the NICU. It is a reminder of the incredible bond that forms between families and the medical professionals who care for them during such a critical time.

Caregivers, neonatologists, nurses, members from the Santa Maria Fire Department and the Santa Maria Police Department joined volunteers from Marian Regional Medical Center and many others who gathered to eagerly welcome the graduates on the grounds of the hospital Saturday morning.

"Seeing our NICU graduates thrive as healthy, happy kids is the ultimate reward. It's a testament to the dedication of our team and the resilience of these amazing children and their families," said Sue Andersen, President and CEO of Marian Regional Medical Center.  "Thousands of lives have been touched by our NICU and this event serves as a great reminder of the impact we all can make.”

Community organizations and local businesses partnered with the hospital to make the event truly special. Testa Catering and Event Rentals, CRAVE Donuts, Alpha Lit Central Coast, Coast Photo Booth, Trader Joe’s Santa Maria, Balloon Fantasy and Truly Gifted helped provide an array of refreshments, decorations, and entertainment. Marian volunteers, the Santa Maria Fire Department, Santa Maria police, and the Children’s Resource Network supported the unique event. 

The annual NICU reunion also stands as a testament to the hospital’s dedication to supporting families and celebrating the triumphs of life and a reminder that Marian remains committed to providing exceptional care to all patients, especially the most vulnerable. 

Marian’s 21-bed, Community (Level III) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is the most sophisticated and technologically-advanced unit in the region, providing exceptional care to the tiniest of patients.

For additional  information or questions about Marian Regional Medical Center’s NICU please visit Dignityhealth.org/Marian.

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About Marian Regional Medical Center
Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 191-bed medical center located in Santa Maria, California. The modern facility is home to a broad array of services including a level II trauma center, a level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a nationally recognized cardiac care center, and boasts the Central Coast’s only Comprehensive Community Cancer Program as recognized by the Commission on Cancer. 

About Dignity Health Central Coast
Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.