NICU families gather for reunion in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — September is Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, or NICU, Awareness Month, and one local group is marking the occasion by bringing together families who have experienced having a baby in the NICU.

Dozens of families gathered Sunday at Plaza on Princess for the first-ever NICU reunion hosted by the NICU Family Collective.

The event brought together families who have experienced the NICU journey, giving them an opportunity to connect, share their stories and celebrate their children.

Families enjoyed food, took photos and spent time with others who understand what they have been through.

Ellison Clark, founder of the NICU Family Collective and a NICU parent, said families experiencing the NICU for the first time should know they are not alone.

“There are folks that have walked in their shoes, that understand how just scared they are feeling and how out of control it is,” Clark said. “Everything is new, and learning all sorts of medical terms. But there are lots of us out there that are here for them and want to support them, so please reach out if they want that support.”

For more information on NICU Family Collective, you can click here for its website.