Reunion of Saved Babies in the Central Visayas
Jaika Jel D. Besira, RN, MMHA
The annual celebration of Reunion of Saved Babies resumed after two years in Central Visayas.
The Department of Health - Central Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH - CV CHD) in collaboration with Newborn Screening Continuity Clinic - Central Visayas (NSCC-CV) and Center for Human Genetics Services for Visayas (CHGSV) conducted the event on the following schedules: Negros Oriental and Siquijor Provinces – October 14, 2022 at Dumaguete Royal Suites Inn, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental; October 27, 2022 at Reyna’s the Haven and Gardens, Tagbilaran City, Bohol; and, November 18, 2022 at Sarrosa International Hotel and Residential Suites, Cebu City.
A total of 120 patients with either endocrine, metabolic, and hemoglobin disorders were in attendance, all accompanied by their parents and health workers from different LGUs.
The Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) - Negros Oriental Chapter kept the attendees entertained with games, prizes, and musical numbers.
One of the highlights of the event was the evaluation and counseling for the metabolic patients by Center for Human Genetics Services - Central Visayas team led by Dr. Barbra Charina Cavan. Testimonies from parents recounted experiences from the time they learned that their babies had the disorder to their journey in raising them as normal children. Gift packs and hygiene kits for the parents and toys for the kids were distributed. It was a day of laughter, fun, family bonding, and thanksgiving for the unwavering commitment and support to the program.
Every year, the Newborn Screening team of Central Visayas hosts this reunion to celebrate the lives of these children. It also aims to foster camaraderie among parents. It provides parents a forum to share personal experiences and feelings, coping strategies, and any information related to their children’s medical condition and treatment.