Connecticut Rotary Clubs Support NICU Webcam Project at Connecticut Children's Medical Center
Posted
on Dec 10, 2014
In recent months, six Connecticut Rotary Clubs have worked together to raise thousands of dollars for the Angel Eye Webcam Project at the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) in Hartford and Farmington.
The Avon-Canton and West Hartford Rotaries gave $5,000 each. The Rotary Club of Farmington kicked in another $2,500. Along with other Connecticut Rotaries, these clubs are helping to bring "Angel Eye" webcam technology to Connecticut Children's Medical Center’s NICUs. The webcam technology will provide parents of critically ill or premature newborns with a way to bond with their babies during their baby's stay in the NICU, even when moms and dads cannot be physically present. The webcams cost $2,500 each.
The Rotary Clubs are coordinating their efforts with the EvvGirl Foundation of Agawam (MA), whose mission is to provide a camera for very NICU bed throughout New England.
"Each of these babies and their families face an incredibly emotional and difficult time as they struggle through the first days, weeks and even months of their lives," said Connecticut Children's Medical Center Foundation President Martha Schall. "That's why we are so grateful to [our area] Rotary Clubs for their fundraising efforts -- and to the EvvGirl Foundation for laying the groundwork -- to equip our NICUs with this state-of-the-art technology to benefit patient families."
Salin Low, president of the Avon-Canton Rotary Club was delighted with his club's generous donation. "This gift encourages members to approach other potential donors, as well as to increase our club's fundraising efforts. This is a project that demonstrates the area's Rotary clubs' commitment to the people of our area. It's also a great chance for the clubs to work together to make others aware of Rotary's strength."
Mecheal Hamilton, president of the Rotary Club of Farmington, was also well pleased with her club's participation, and their donors' support of the project. "It is our intent to rally both corporate and personal donors to support this effort and to equip our local NICUs within one year," she said. "Donated cameras will have a digital message appear each time the camera is in use, highlighting who made the donation," Hamilton explained. PTo the families, this is a reminder of those in the community who care and support easing the emotional separation that families will experience with a child in the NICU. Every moment of bonding is precious to these families."