In a previous blog post back in 2019, we introduced you to Maddie Francis, the inspiring founder of NICU Cheer, and her son Ashton, whose early arrival at 30 weeks gestation in 2016 sparked a movement to support families in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Since then, NICU Cheer has grown remarkably, extending its reach and impact across Victoria.
What began as a heartfelt initiative to deliver gift bags on Christmas Day has blossomed into a year-round mission. NICU Cheer now provides thoughtfully curated gift bags to parents on four significant occasions: Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Christmas. These gestures aim to bring comfort and a sense of community to families during challenging times.
By Christmas Day 2023, NICU Cheer had expanded its outreach to ten hospitals across Victoria, ensuring that more families receive support during their NICU journey. Most recently, NICU Cheer delivered 315 gift bags for NICU/SCN families who spent Easter Sunday in hospital visiting their little one(s). Maddie's passionate team of volunteers AKA 'The NICU Cheer Squad' play a crucial role in assembling and delivering these gift bags. Their collective efforts ensure that the initiative continues to grow and reach more families each year.
Maddie's dedication has certainly not gone unnoticed. She was honoured as a Westfield Local Hero in 2020, acknowledging her significant contributions to the community through NICU Cheer and she continues to raise awareness and provide support via Instagram.
NICU Cheer remains committed to its mission of bringing joy and support to NICU families. With plans to continue expanding and reaching more hospitals, the organisation is always seeking volunteers and donations to sustain its efforts. We are extremely proud to have donated this years supply of gift bag labels in four beautiful designs and recipients of these gift bags will also receive a physical copy of our free 'Guide To Dressing Your Premature Baby'.
Maddie Francis's journey from a NICU mother to a community leader whilst juggling full time work and life as a busy mum of two, exemplifies the power of turning personal challenges into collective support for others going through the same journey that Maddie once did. Through NICU Cheer, she continues to make a profound difference in the lives of countless premature babies and NICU families. We are grateful to have Maddie in our community and Earlybirds is extremely proud to have supported NICU Cheer in various ways over the years.
To learn more about NICU Cheer, volunteer or donate, visit their official website: NICU Cheer
Read our original blog post with Maddie here.
