The Dr. R.E.M Lee Hospital Foundation is working on bringing a neonatal intensive care unit to the new Mills Memorial Hospital.
Following their Kitsumkalum Walk For Health fundraiser, the foundation announced the $14.5 million project titled Closer to Home.
Originally not part of the Mills rebuild, the fundraising campaign aims to create a four bed, tier three NICU.
The unit will be able to care for pre-term babies at 34 weeks or as early as 32 weeks in emergent cases instead of the current 37 weeks.
Offering rooms with kitchenettes and laundry facilities, parents will be able to stay with their babies and support systems while undergoing treatment in the NICU.
It would also make it possible for those who require tier 4 or 6 treatment to return home sooner.
According to the foundation, the new unit could also increase the recruitment and retention of obstetricians and other specialized healthcare workers.
Also announcing the single largest contribution to the foundation, the campaign received a $2 million donation from Newcrest Mining Limited, through their sustainability fund.
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