Prior to 2019, book nooks could be found throughout the NICU, allowing siblings and families opportunities to read and share stories while visiting the unit. However, with the onset of COVID-19 and amid heightened concerns around infection control, the NICU could no longer keep communal books in the unit. The Little Listeners program fills this gap providing books directly to the patients and families, allowing them to build their own libraries!
The program expanded to include a Read-A-Thon starting in 2022. This event distributes books to NICU families and encourages families and team members to read, read, read to the babies on the unit. This year was a rousing success with 1,418 books passed out to NICU families thanks to donations from community partners and former NICU families.
One such former NICU family member is Shawna Keyes. Shawna authored, “The Adventure of Asher and Rocket,” a story written from her son, Asher’s point of view on his own NICU journey. Now six years old, Asher and Shawna are a source of inspiration for other NICU families. She joined the team at the promotional tables along with two other former NICU mothers.
“It was so heartwarming to see families and staff reading to the babies,” said Dr. Christina Wong. “Melman also joined the party. He was obviously a hit! We had a wonderful and successful 2024 Read-A-Thon.”