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The Little Miracles Trust is Aotearoa New Zealand’s national neonatal charity. We’re here to help
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Lighting Up Purple for World Prematurity Day
We’re thrilled to share that a record number of New Zealand landmarks and buildings will shine bright in purple this year for World Prematurity Day on 17 November. They’ll join famous international icons such as the Empire State Building, the Trevi Fountain, and Niagara Falls in raising awareness for the 13.4 million babies born prematurely…
Robert & Olivia’s Story
As told by Dad, Robert. Olivia and I found out she was pregnant with our first child in May 2023. During the pregnancy we learned that she had a septate uterus and was predisposed to pre-eclampsia, so we expected there might be a premature birth. Later, further complications were identified: our baby was measuring smaller…
My NICU Story – Norena & Zayn
Kia ora, My name is Norena Tigafua, and I'm a proud mum to two beautiful boys my toddler Lucas, and my little fighter, Zayn. I'm writing to share a piece of our journey one I hope offers comfort, strength, or simply connection to another whanau navigating the NICU world. In mid-2024, our family travelled from…
Our Adeline
As told by mum, Jess, Leading up to Addy’s birth I was much sicker than previous pregnancies. I was in and out of hospital for the first 20 weeks. As my pregnancy progressed I was able to manage my sickness and it eased a bit. When labour began my husband and I dropped our older…
The life of Rome Te Awanuiarangi Morgan
As told by mum, K’Larose After a spontaneous premature birth with my first born (who also spent 8 weeks in Wellington Hospital NICU) at 30 weeks. Then going on to lose 2 more babies after my first, due to issues with PPROM (Pre-term premature rupture of membranes). I then became pregnant with my last baby…
Postnatal Depression
Most mothers have days when they feel really down. This is perfectly normal. Looking after a baby, being constantly on call and coping with the daily demands of life is not easy. However, mothers who feel miserable most of the time may be suffering from postnatal depression, a debilitating illness that can spoil the experience…
Famous Prems
Photo by ©Christiaan Kotze/SASPA Prematurity isn’t a new thing and in fact some famous names and high achievers had a premature start to life. Some were born centuries ago and battled incredible odds to survive in the first place given the conditions and views at the time. Follow these links to read about some famous…
Lactation Boosting Cookies – Recipe
A tasty little recipe that may also help to improve the quality and supply of breast milk. Widely used by mothers! If you have 2-3 smallish ones a day it may balance out supply – but if you want to eat more then enjoy! See below, or view as a PDF Ingredients (makes 6 dozen)1 cup of butter or…
Reading to your baby
Reading to your baby has many benefits. It’s no secret to most people that reading is great for our brain development and our mental wellbeing. What may not be quite so well-known are the benefits of reading to babies. Talking, reading or even singing quietly to your baby will soothe and reassure them. It also helps them to…
Kangaroo cuddles
The Little Miracles Trust loves Kangaroo Cuddles! Every year we celebrate International Kangaroo Cuddles day, which is held on May 15th. Of course, every day is a great one for practising skin-to-skin ‘Kangaroo cuddles’ and we promote this throughout the year, in many ways. If you have a baby please read and get involved! If not,…
What Financial Support Can I Get?
Understanding Best Start Payments and Paid Parental Leave for Families with a Baby in Neonatal Care Having a baby in neonatal care can be a stressful and emotional time. Alongside caring for your little one, it’s important to know about the financial supports available to you, including Best Start Payments and Paid Parental Leave, especially…
Think REF
Parents on a neonatal journey can often find it overwhelming. Finding the balance to look after yourself is often forgotten. With high stress, physical and mental exhaustion, changes to routine and often a lack of sleep, it’s little wonder some parents start to feel anxious and as if they have less control over their lives. …