World Prematurity Day, celebrated on 17 November every year, celebrates and recognizes the resilience and determination of premature babies to stay alive, sometimes against the odds.
These “Preemies” often have to stay in hospital for weeks to months before thay can leave the hospital, sometimes even before they can be put in the arms of their parents.
The Kandang Kerbau Womens’ and Children Hospital in Singapore, who recently broke the Guinness world record for “Largest Reunion of People Born at the Same Hospital”, chose to celebrate World Prematurity Day in the most touching way possible to celebrate the heroic efforts of the Preemies by dressing them up as Superheroes.
Sheraz, Thor
Born at: 29 weeks gestation
No. of days in hospital: 98 days and still inpatient
Superhero trait: Indestructible. Smashes every challenge that comes his way.
Chen An, The Flash
Born at: 29 weeks 2 days gestation
No. of days in hospital: 36 days and still inpatient
Superhero Trait: Swift. Quick to learn new tasks.
Wei Yan, the Green Lantern
Born at: 24 weeks 4 days gestation
No. of days in hospital: 105 days and still inpatient
Superhero trait: Brave. Beacon of strength even though his twin brother has been discharged.
Elyza, the Supergirl
Born at 26 weeks 1 day gestation
No. of days in hospital: 45 days and still inpatient
Superhero trait: Fortitude. Able to remain calm even when things get chaotic.
Asher, Robin
Born at: 26 weeks gestation
No. of days in hospital: 112 days and still inpatient
Superhero trait: Resilient, against all the odds.
Joshua, the Spiderboy
Born at: 30 weeks 4 days gestation
No. of days in hospital: 43 days
Superhero trait: Charming. Wins everyone over.
Allia, The Wondergirl
Born at: 24 weeks 3 days gestation
No. of days in hospital: 200 days and still inpatient
Superhero Trait: Courageous. Braved through storms.
Avril, the Wondergirl
Born at: 24 weeks 6 days gestation
No. of days in hospital: 98 days
Superhero trait: Zealous. Lively and energetic, especially at milk times.
Thaqif, Captain America
Born at: 24 weeks gestation
No. of days in hospital: 216 days
Superhero trait: The strong and mighty one. Makes his presence known.
Being a Preemie myself, till today I still hear stories of my birth and the time I needed in an incubator. It’s a trying time for both baby and parents. So let’s send some positive vibes to all the preemies and their parents around the world.
From one Preemie to another, you can do it!
Credits: Photography by Dr. Janlie Banas, Clinical Associate, Dept of Neonatology, KK Hospital