Norton Children’s NICU nurses bring Halloween joy to families

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Nurses at Norton Children’s Hospital are helping families with babies in the neonatal intensive care unit celebrate Halloween with a special photo shoot.

The annual tradition gives families an opportunity to make memories with their babies while they navigate the challenges of a hospital stay.

NICU nurses provided costumes, hats and festive props for the photo shoot, including pumpkin-themed outfits. Some of the knitted costumes were donated by Angels Among Us, with additional support from the community.

Sydney Exton, a NICU nurse at Norton Children’s Hospital, said the experience can be especially meaningful for parents spending a holiday away from home while their babies receive care.

“When you have a baby, there’s nothing normal about having a NICU stay and having to leave your baby here and go home,” Exton said.

The photo shoot gives families something tangible to take home and remember their baby’s first Halloween, she said.

“They get so excited, even just to have something tangible to take home to remember that Halloween with,” Exton said.

The event takes considerable planning and relies on nurses who volunteer their time, along with donations and community support.

Exton said making holidays special for families is one of the most rewarding parts of working in the NICU.

“I think for most of us, it’s one of our most favorite things that we get to do,” she said.

The nurses hope the photos will give families lasting memories to look back on as they reflect on their babies’ journeys.