Baby Hope says ‘thank you’ to staff at hospital

Baby Hope says ‘thank you’ to staff at hospital

12 February 2025

A BABY girl from Comber’s special act of kindness has touched the hearts of families and staff at the Ulster Hospital’s Neonatal Unit.

Former neonatal patient, Hope Jackson from Comber, recently returned to donate story books to the unit that once cared for her.

Hope was born at just 31 weeks on January 27 last year.

To mark her first birthday, her family invited loved ones to gift books that could be donated to the hospital’s neonatal unit that had cared for her.

Knowing what they experienced when Hope was there, Hope’s parents believed this small gesture would help bring comfort to parents and babies going through a similar experience.

“When Hope was in the unit, reading to her was such a comfort,” said mum Ruth.

“It helped develop our bond and drown out the noise of the machines. These books will hopefully give other families a chance to develop their bond.”

 Hope’s family expressed their deep gratitude to the neonatal unit, acknowledging the dedication of the staff who played a vital role in Hope’s journey. 

Now she is a thriving, happy one year-old.

The unit’s infant feeding lead nurse Cathy Flinn was delighted to receive the books.

She added: “We really value and appreciate Baby Hope’s donation as reading is so important for a baby’s neurological development. It is great to see our neonatal graduates thriving when they pop back in a see us.”