'A touch of normalcy': Halloween comes to the NICU

babies in costumes -- Yoda and Barbie
Noah, left, channels Yoda as Giovanna rocks the Barbie look. Photo credit Advocate Children's Hospital

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – A Chicago hospital system is continuing its Halloween tradition of inviting families to put costumes on the littlest patients, and the results are off the cuteness charts.

Advocate Children’s Hospitals this week shared photographs of this year’s “NICU Halloween Costume Bash,” wherein parents work with staff to safely disguise babies that are hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. It’s all about having some fun during what can be a stressful time for families, says Chief Nursing Officer Michelle Tracy.

babies dressed up as Twinkies
Behold Emelia and Maeve, dressed up as your favorite snack food. Photo credit Advocate Children's Hospitals FACEBOOK

“We know that caring for our patients on their NICU journey involves more than medications and procedures,” she said in a news release.
“Supporting our tiniest patients also means bringing smiles and a touch of normalcy to the entire family. Helping these babies dress up for Halloween is one way that we can celebrate their resilience and create the joy that they so deserve.”

The Advocate Children’s Hospitals system has posted several photos of the costumed NICU babies. The public is encouraged to ooh and ahh over the children and vote for their favorites by leaving a reaction. Results of the “friendly” contest will be announced Oct. 27, officials said.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Advocate Children's Hospital