GLENDALE, Ariz. (April 11, 2025) — Banner Thunderbird Medical Center played host to a special reunion of graduates of its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with more than 40 families of former patients returning to reconnect with the medical team whose babies once required specialized neonatal care.
The reunion, held April 5, was filled with smiles, laughter, and heartfelt moments as parents and children reunited with the nurses, doctors, and support staff who played a vital role in their early lives.
In 2024, Banner Thunderbird welcomed more than 4,800 newborns. Of those, approximately 500 required advanced care in the NICU. Thanks to the expertise and compassion of the NICU team, many of those babies are now thriving.
“This event is always a deeply emotional and inspiring reminder of the work we do,” said Zoe Coleman, director of women and infant services at Banner Thunderbird. “Watching these children run, laugh and grow into such strong little individuals is a testament to the strength of their families and the dedication of our entire team.”
The reunion served not only as a celebration but also as a symbol of gratitude — from families to the medical professionals who gave their children the best possible start in life.
Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale, Ariz., specializes in heart care, surgical services, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency and trauma care, behavioral health, cancer care, rehabilitation and pediatrics, including the West Valley’s only pediatric intensive care unit, pediatric Emergency department and Level III neonatal intensive care unit. Banner Thunderbird also operates a Level I Trauma Center for patients ages 15 and older. The hospital is part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health system with 33 hospitals in six states. For more information, please visit bannerhealth.com/thunderbird.
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