Indiana State University Newsroom

In recognition of Prematurity Awareness Month in November, Indiana State University's College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services has partnered with the March of Dimes to make a difference in the lives of parents and babies at Union Hospital's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

With funding from a community grant provided by March of Dimes, Indiana State purchased a laminator, printer ink, and other materials and supplies needed to make pictures of newborns.

"Photos provide special memories for the parents of babies in neonatal intensive care. Sometimes these pictures and items made by the nurses are the only keepsakes parents have of their infants as some babies pass away. Prematurity is the number one killer of newborns," said Chelsea Burke, community director of March of Dimes.

"I am so appreciative of this grant award," said Jack Turman, dean of the College of Nursing, Health, and Human Services. "I greatly respect the work of the March of Dimes to promote healthy babies. We are happy to partner with this organization to create special memories for parents and to help spread awareness about the impact of preterm birth on babies, families and communities."

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality and is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. For more than 75 years, moms and babies have benefited from March of Dimes research, education, vaccines and breakthroughs. For the latest resources and information, visit www.marchofdimes.org or www. nacersano.org. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

For more information, contact Chelsea Burke, community director of March of Dimes, at cburke@marchofdimes.org or (812-234-2736.