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A Time To Say Goodbye
Media information
For immediate release
Date: 23 February 2009
A Time To Say Goodbye
Family and friends who have spent time in Waikato Hospital's old Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can return this Friday for one last visit before it closes.
Refurbishment of the area will get underway next week following the move of all babies into the new unit tomorrow (Tuesday).
Since opening in 1980, the NICU has treated more than 22,000 babies from throughout the Midland Region.
Sadly, some of these babies only lived in the NICU and it is the only place that parents will have seen their newborn.
"NICU nursing staff understand the strong connection that families have with the unit," Chris Baker, Waikato DHB project manager said.
"They've organised a special farewell ceremony and are inviting all past and present staff, friends and families.
"It's their chance to say goodbye," he said.
NICU farewell ceremony: Friday 27 February, 4-6pm inside the old NICU area, level B1 Elizabeth Rothwell Building, Waikato Hospital.
Parking is available in the carpark building.
ENDS
Waikato District Health Board
Healthy People. Excellent Care
Waikato District Health Board (DHB) employs over 6500 people and plans, funds and provides hospital and health services to more than 391,770 people in a region covering eight per cent of New Zealand.
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