Over 25,000 babies are born prematurely in Australia each year and the ‘Wear Green for Premmies’ campaign is a day where people are encouraged to wear green to show their support.
The day raises awareness of premature birth whilst highlighting the trials and hardships that families face after an early arrival.
L’il Aussie Prems Foundation’s Vice President, Ms Andrena Taylor said, the event is a momentous day in raising awareness, sharing stories and starting discussions around premature birth.
“We have gained so much support for our event over the years, it is truly phenomenal. Countless Australians know someone who has been touched by prematurity and the emotional journey parents are faced with, often spending many months travelling to and from hospital whilst their baby receives critical care after birth. Our event is such a simple way for everyone to recognise this personal and unique journey.” she said.
“It shows that people are enthusiastic about recognising the issue and social media is allowing the topic to hit mainstream interest.”
The event continues to make an impact by enabling the L'il Aussie Prems Foundation to donate equipment to nurseries each year. Over $16,000 has now been donated from part of the proceeds raised since 2011.
This year, Wear Green for Premmies will once again support four new nurseries at the King Edward Memorial Hospital in Perth, the Royal Hobart Hospital, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital and Lismore Base Hospital.
Participants are invited to join the charity’s Facebook page, encourage family, friends and work colleagues to simply wear green, share their story, purchase a wristband and fundraise online to help raise vital funds.
The funds raised will enable the charity to continue their important work, to expand on their family focused programs and donate vital equipment to the four chosen hospitals.