In May of 2017, Keri Spillman had the privilege of launching our story regarding comfort measures for our tiniest patients, "Octopus for a preemie". Keri took the time and research to become an ambassador in order for Medical Center Alliance to collaborate with OFAP-US. With our facility partnering with community volunteers, we are able to provide colorful, crocheted octopus lovies for our babies. Research shows that these lovies provide comfort and calm to premature babies in the NICU and serves as a form of therapy for them.
In June, we had a family with an early delivery due to complications. When Baby L was admitted to the NICU she was adjusting to life outside the womb and had a difficult time with her blood sugar. In just a few days Baby L suddenly passed away with the NICU team making every effort to revive Baby L. Keri was the nurse who helped provide comfort in the parent's time of need and they sent the message below thanking Keri for her compassionate care. The parents now use the octopus as a reminder of their Baby L.
"My Baby L was recently in the NICU. I'm hoping you can help me reach Keri. She was our baby's NICU nurse. Baby L passed away in July. I wanted to reach Keri to thank her for the octopus she gave us. It was intended to comfort Baby L so I gave it to her for comfort after I held onto it for a few days. After she passed, that's all I had left to hold onto. Knowing her sweet little fingers were holding onto it in her last hours have been such a comfort. Thank you, Keri, for your kindness and thank you for the octopus. I carry him everywhere and it is such a sweet reminder of our beautiful Baby L. Thank you for taking such good care of her."