METHODIST HOSPITAL | METROPOLITAN ENCOURAGES EARLY LITERACY WITH READ-A-THON

In honor of March being National Reading Month, Methodist Hospital | Metropolitan’s NICU hosted a read-a-thon! Staff and families read books to the hospital’s tiniest patients throughout the month, which was therapeutic for all involved! Having a child in the NICU is stressful and overwhelming for families, especially as they come to terms with their baby’s special care, the skills they need to learn, and the details of their child’s illness. Reading to babies daily can strengthen their senses, promote brain growth, and increase their language and listening skills by enhancing their memory. Research proves that the earlier you begin reading to your children, the more prepared they will be once they start school.

The hospital encourages families to instill a lifelong relationship with reading and books into their children’s lives, starting as newborns. Families were - gifted books as a keepsake and were eligible to win prizes for reading to their little ones.

To the moms, I would want them to know that you just did something miraculous - you brought a human being into this world! In this moment, you may feel tired, overwhelmed, and perhaps a little self-conscious about how you look. But let me tell you, none of that matters. You are beautiful and powerful, and this moment is one that you will want to cherish forever.

As a photographer, I have witnessed the sparkle in the dad’s eyes when they see the transformation of their partner becoming a mother. I think fathers would agree with me when I say, there is nothing more beautiful than a mother holding her baby.

The Blue Birds photography program uses a portion of the proceeds from each photography session to purchase car seats and cribs for parents who cannot afford them. It’s a way of ensuring that all parents have what they need to care for their new little ones. The rest of the proceeds go to different charities.

I am 65 years old, and I hope to continue doing this amazing job for as long as I can. It’s the best job in the world, and I am grateful for it every single day.