Infants and new parents at the NCH Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will benefit from a beautiful gift by one of NCH’s best-known volunteers and philanthropists. Shelia Smith Davis is a beloved NCH “Baby Snuggler” – an intensely trained volunteer at our NICU who supports the well-being and development of infants in their first weeks of life.
“Other than my own three children, nothing has given me greater joy,” says Davis, who has been a dedicated NICU volunteer for two years and was recently recognized as Volunteer of the Year. “I’ve met parents from all walks of life – all of whom are enduring a heartbreaking experience. As I looked around the environment, I could see so many ways to make it more inviting and comfortable for them.”
Davis, a successful entrepreneur and world-champion ballroom dancer, has spent decades supporting healthcare, the arts and education, with a special commitment to serving the needs of underprivileged and at-risk children. In this case, she hatched a plan to renovate and refresh the NCH NICU suites with new furniture by launching a fundraiser with her friends. Thanks to their support, NCH is receiving 10 bassinets, 19 Belmont chairs and 19 specially designed Kangaroo sleeper recliners that allow for skin-to-skin contact between parents and their newborns. This thoughtful gift will help strengthen the bond between parents and their newborn in critical early days.
“We are so thankful to Shelia for all she does to contribute to our babies’ welfare, especially the tireless hours holding and comforting babies, making our NICU a ‘home’ to our preemies and sick newborns,” says Anita Crosby, NCH registered nurse. “She has a heartfelt passion for our babies, women and children, and our community.”
Shelia has logged more than 700 volunteer snuggling hours and also serves in NCH’s first group of Palliative Care Angels, who provide companionship to people living with a serious illness who might be near the end of life. If you would like to join Shelia to volunteer or advance care by giving to NCH, please call (239) 624-2000 or give today at NCHmd.org/donate.
