Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/642300
When baby Graham decided to arrive early on January 15, 2015, the Garbarinos were glad CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier was the top recommendation. "I was 30 weeks along when Graham was born at a different hospital," Meghan recalls. "He needed to be moved to a NICU, but we weren't sure where to go. Our nurses mentioned CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier, and we knew it was a faith-based hospital. Faith is important to us, so that's where he went." Graham was in CHRISTUS Health Shreveport- Bossier's level III NICU until the end of March recovering from the trauma of a difficult birth and letting his lungs and other vital systems finish developing. The family became a fixture at the hospital, developing close relationships with the nurses and doctors who cared for Graham. "The experience, the staff and the personal attention we received during our time at the NICU could not be matched at other places," Meghan says. "The staff is like a family. They have a very clear passion for what they do. It's not just a job. The amazing way they took care of our entire family's physical and emotional needs says it all." Today, Graham is an extremely happy 1-year- old who is beloved by his big sisters. For more information about the NICU at CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier, visit christushealthsb.org. "The balloon represents more than 41,000 local children who receive services at CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier in 17 signature programs for babies, kids and teens. It's kids like Corbin, Kayleigh, Spencer and Graham that came into the world early and spent time in the NICU. It's Carson, Hutton, Kyah and Loren learning at Kids Clinic to walk, talk and just be kids again. The stories are endless. Every balloon has a story because every kid has a story." Bobby Cox, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Program Director "The Miracle Balloon Campaign holds a special place in the hearts of the people who work in our stores and those who give. It brings giving back to a personal level that's accessible to everyone. We see children come in and donate their allowances, all because they want to help other children. Our employees know they are helping just by being at work that day. This campaign shows us the heart of the community and we're proud to be a part of it." April Morgan, District Manager, fred's Pharmacy. To get involved in giving back, look for the balloon at local retailers or visit christusfoundationsb.org. "The balloon represents more than 41,000 local children who receive services at CHRISTUS Health Shreveport-Bossier in 17 signature programs for babies, kids and teens. are endless. Every balloon has a story spent time in the NICU. It's Carson, Hutton, Kyah and Loren learning at Kids Clinic to walk, talk and just be kids again. The stories To get involved in giving back, look for the balloon at local retailers or visit christusfoundationsb.org. When Ruston couple Meghan and James Garbarino were preparing for the arrival of their third child, choosing an area neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) wasn't something they considered. The red and yellow CMN Hospital balloon is a symbol that unites people of all ages and backgrounds. Here's what it means to two of the people who champion the cause close to home: Miracle Balloon Campaign Helps Local Kids Special Care for an Early Arrival 3 LiveWell | Winter 2016