UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center

What an amazing day it was today as I returned to the NICU at UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center. This hospital means the world to me because it literally delivered me into this world and then made sure I was ready to go out to the world when I went home with my mom and dad.

I spent my first 12 weeks of life in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), and I’ve heard many stories from my parents about the unbelievable group of medical professionals who cared for me. So, walking through the NICU doors, seeing the room where my isolette (incubator) was located, and talking to the current staff was a very special moment. It was emotional for me and seeing the joy that our discussion brought to the staff was indescribable.

I shared why I founded my Team Preemie charitable organization, as well as the meaning of the items in the Team Preemie Packets that I created and delivered to the NICU. Ultimately, I simply hope these preemie packets help bond preemie babies and parents during such a challenging start to life.

I also hope this is only the beginning of much bigger things that Team Preemie can offer to those in need!