INDIANAPOLIS (August 22, 2026) — Community Hospital North welcomed former Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) patients, their families and caregivers for its 12th Annual NICU Reunion, continuing a cherished tradition that celebrates the resilience of NICU graduates and the lasting relationships formed during some of life's most challenging moments.
Held at Conner Prairie, this year's animal-themed event, “Wild About Our NICU Graduates," brought together hundreds of children and families who once relied on the expert care of Community Hospital North's NICU team.
Families enjoyed games, activities, food and fellowship while reconnecting with the physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists and other caregivers who cared for their babies during their NICU journeys.
Many parents shared updates on their children's growth and development, while caregivers celebrated milestones reached by children who spent days, weeks, or months receiving specialized care in the NICU.
"One of the most rewarding parts of caring for NICU patients is seeing them come back thriving with their families," said Jamie Phillippe, VP, Chief Nurse Executive, Community Hospital North. "The reunion is a reminder that while a NICU stay may be only part of a family's story, the relationships formed during that time often last for years."
Community Hospital North is home to one of Indiana's busiest maternity programs and has delivered more babies than any other hospital in Indiana for 11 consecutive years, according to data verified by the Indiana Department of Health. In 2025, Community Hospital North welcomed 4,561 babies and provided NICU care to 1,080 newborns.
Community Hospital North and Community Hospital East are designated Obstetric and Neonatal Level III perinatal hospitals, providing advanced care for mothers and babies with complications and complex medical conditions. Community Howard Regional Health, Community Hospital Anderson and Community Hospital South have achieved Level II perinatal designations, ensuring families throughout Central Indiana have access to specialized maternity and newborn care close to home.
Community Health Network's continued investment in maternal and infant care includes the planned opening of Community Hospital Westfield in 2027, which will include a Level III NICU and further expand access to advanced neonatal and maternity care for families across the region.
For many families, the annual reunion serves as an opportunity to reconnect with caregivers who helped guide them through one of the most emotional experiences of their lives.
"No family plans for a NICU stay, but our team is committed to providing compassionate, expert care while supporting parents every step of the way," said Maddie Lenig, Nursing Director, Neonatal ICU, Community Hospital North. "Seeing these children return healthy, active and thriving is the greatest celebration of all."
Video, sound and pictures provided are available for use. Please courtesy: Community Health Network.
About Community Health Network
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Community Health Network has been deeply committed to the communities it serves since opening its first hospital, Community Hospital East, in 1956. Community Health Network puts patients first while offering a full continuum of healthcare services, world-class innovations, and a new focus on population health management. Exceptional care, simply delivered, is what sets Community Health Network apart and what makes it a leading not-for-profit healthcare destination in central Indiana. For more information about Community Health Network, please visit eCommunity.com.