For many, Christmas is a time of joy, rest, and connection. But for patients and families in hospital, it can be a time of uncertainty and mixed emotions. While most of us are celebrating with family and friends, patient care and medical research across the Northern Sydney Local Health District continues every day of the year – even during the festive season.
At Royal North Shore Hospital, this dedication is perhaps felt most deeply in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where fragile and critically ill newborns and their families receive compassionate care. For mum Melissa, Christmas time will always remind her of the extraordinary care that saved her daughter, Mariah, who was born 13 weeks premature.
“Mariah weighed just 1.2 kilograms – less than half the average weight of a newborn – and needed specialist care and respiratory support,” Melissa said. “It was terrifying, but the NICU team were a pillar of support, especially during those first overwhelming hours.”
Every year, the dedicated NICU team at Royal North Shore Hospital cares for around 750 of the most vulnerable newborn babies, with up to 31 infants in care at any one time during the busy December and January months.
The NICU is equipped with world-class technology – but behind every monitor and incubator is a team that brings compassion and warmth to families facing the unimaginable.
Dr Eveline Staub, Head of Department and Senior Staff Specialist Neonatology at Royal North Shore Hospital, said the atmosphere in the unit during Christmas is both emotional and heartwarming.
“No one expects to be in hospital at Christmas, but it can be especially hard for new parents,” Dr Staub said. “But we do everything we can to bring a sense of joy. The unit is decorated; nurses dress the babies in Christmas outfits and make a Christmas card for parents with their baby’s tiny footprints. We also celebrate every small milestone – a first cuddle, a first feed, or even reducing respiratory support. Those moments mean everything.”
Gilbert Lorquet, CEO of the NORTH Foundation, said the Christmas Appeal is a reminder that healthcare doesn’t take a holiday.
“For many, the festive season is a time of joy and rest. But for patients in hospital, it can be a time of uncertainty,” Mr Lorquet said.
“While we gather with loved ones, thousands of patients are navigating medical emergencies, complex treatments or lengthy recoveries. Behind the scenes, healthcare professionals continue to show up every day – providing expert care and compassion when it’s needed most. By donating to the NORTH Foundation Christmas Appeal, you can help fund vital healthcare services and innovative medical research – bringing hope and the highest level of care to patients and their families.”
This Christmas, your donation can help fund advanced equipment and support programs that make a world of difference for families like Melissa’s.
“When Mariah finally came home after 5 weeks in the NICU, we knew she’d been given the best start to life,” Melissa said. This Christmas, my home will be filled with joy, laughter and the sound of Mariah’s giggles. The NICU team saved Mariah’s life, and I will be forever grateful for everyone that looked after her – they’re the reason we get to celebrate Christmas with her every year.”
