Premature babies benefit from project
JOBURG - 17 November was observed as World Prematurity Day.
Proudly South African children’s clothing manufacturer Keedo and Marie Janse van Rensburg have joined forces through the creation of the Keedo Prem Project.
The aim of the project is to alleviate some of the pressure that families with premature babies face. Approximately 15-million babies are born premature annually, of which an estimated one million babies die as a result of premature birth complications, according to the World Health Organisation.
World Prematurity Day is observed on 17 November in recognition of these startling statistics.
Janse van Rensburg herself lived through this ordeal two years ago, having given birth prematurely to quadruplets that had to spend two months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
“I feel very grateful that my babies are healthy and, more than anything, I now want to pay it forward to other families that are in the same position,” she said.
She has also started a non-profit prem project called Pay it Forward, which aims to supply all State hospital NICUs with prem nests. These nests are used to place a premature baby in so that they feel as though they are still in the womb, keeping their stress levels down and promoting normal development.
The aim of the Keedo Prem Project is to raise awareness and support. This aim is achieved through the creation of ragdolls which are sold in MediClinic hospitals as well as in Keedo stores. The dolls are made by a group of previously unemployed garment workers using Keedo donated materials and fabrics. The money made through purchases of these dolls is utilised to support women and NICUs that cannot afford to care for premature babies. The clothing items sold with the dolls can also be used to clothe premature babies.
Keedo and Janse van Rensburg are further paying it forward by running a prem baby drive this November. Items which are most needed are premature or normal baby clothing, bottles, blankets, beanies and nappies.
Donations can be delivered to Keedo at Cresta Shopping Centre or at any other store nationwide.
