Doctors, nurses, and dozens of local families convened at Virtua Voorhees Hospital on September 25 as a portrait gallery of former NICU babies—now vibrant toddlers, kids, and teens—was unveiled for the first time. Located in the halls outside of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), this “Wall of Hope” includes 28 then-and-now photo sets and provides inspiration to the parents of today’s NICU residents. 

The gallery represents a reinterpretation of a longstanding hospital tradition. The 2024 photos were paired with a smaller image from each child’s first days of life. Some of these children weighed as little as 1 pound at birth, and many spent 100 days or more at the hospital before being healthy enough to go home with their families. 

“As families navigate the rollercoaster of emotions that comes with having a baby in intensive care, these photos offer not just encouragement, but also a glimpse into a future that is filled with laughter, milestones, and cherished moments,” said Renee Smith, BSN, RNC-NIC, nursing director of the NICU. “We want our families to know that they are surrounded by support, both from the staff and from one another. In a time of uncertainty, the wall of photos stands as a powerful reminder: though the journey may be difficult, the outcome can be extraordinary. It’s not just about surviving, it’s about thriving. Every photo is a celebration of that.” 

Each year, Virtua Voorhees Hospital welcomes thousands of newborns, many of whom require extra care. The NICU is equipped with skilled and specially trained staff to support these newborns and their families. 

Erika Perez remembers the incredible support the NICU staff provided to her daughter Camila, who was born after a 29-week pregnancy and stayed in the NICU for 91 days. (A pregnancy of 39 weeks is generally considered “full term.”) 

“I was a first-time mom. I saw how well they cared for her, and they taught me how to care for her,” Erika said about her daughter, who is now 9 years old. “I have kept in touch with many of the staff so that they have had the opportunity to see Camila grow. I want Camila to know them because they made such a difference in our lives.” 

Erika advises NICU parents: “You need to know that that all of your feelings are OK. Happy one moment, sad the next—all emotions are complicated and completely acceptable.” 

She also suggests that NICU parents participate in the group support sessions and embrace guidance from NICU staff and other parents who have been on a similar journey.  

Erika recalls the first iteration of the Wall of Hope and reading the stories of the children whose photos were on display. 

“The wall is a reminder that there is a future ahead. Even the babies with the most complicated stays in the NICU can get through it and live phenomenal lives,” she said. 

The Perez family was eager to see Camila’s photo in the new gallery because “Camila’s story is important, and the NICU is an important part of who she is today.” 

“I want to honor what she went through. She fought her battle in the NICU, and she continues to be brave. Even if it takes her 10 times the effort to accomplish a task, she never gives up. She deserves to have this attention focused on her now,” said Erika. 

For more information about Virtua's NICU and its services, please visit Neonatal Intensive Care | NICU Services.