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"Every caress, every touch has healing power. It is the skin-to-skin contact - the so-called kangarooing - that helps to stabilize the immature newborn's heart rate, breathing and body temperature, strengthens the relationship with the parent and brings peace to both parties," explains MUDr. Milena Dokoupilová, head of the neonatal ward and manager of the Hořovice Maternity Hospital.
"Kangarooing is a gift that every parent can give. The baby feels safe, perceives the heartbeat, smell, familiar voice and warmth. This closeness is healing for both children and their parents," says Lucie Žáčková, director of Nedoklubek.
The Heart to Heart campaign, launched symbolically on Mother's Day, emphasises the power of touch, hugs and closeness - things that play a crucial role in the care of newborns, not just premature ones.
"In our ward, we try to create conditions so that kangarooing is a natural part of everyday care in the intensive care unit. We motivate parents to have regular contact with their child - we know that it literally has a healing effect," adds MUDr. Milena Dokoupilová.
As part of today's day, the coordinator of the Nedoklubko organisation, Markéta Řehořová, also visited the neonatal ward of the Hořovice maternity hospital. The kangaroo parents received from her a hand-crocheted green heart and an information leaflet with an overview of the benefits of skin-to-skin care.
"These small gestures have great symbolism. They are a message that parents are not alone on their journey," says Lucie Žáčková, director of Nedoklubek.
The general public can also buy a green heart through the Nedoklubka charity shop. Proceeds from the sale go to support the care of families with premature babies.
World Kangaroo Day is a reminder that even a small touch can make a big difference.
