Home / Lifestyle / NICU Volunteer's Hugs Heal Babies and Him
NICU Volunteer's Hugs Heal Babies and Him
4 Nov
Summary
- Volunteer Terry Berggren cuddles NICU babies to aid their development.
- Berggren finds personal healing and calm through his volunteer work.
- He received the 2026 Frist Humanitarian Award for his dedication.
A Kansas-based volunteer named Terry Berggren provides essential comfort to infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Overland Park Regional Medical Center. His involvement began in May 2023, stemming from personal NICU experiences and a desire to help others through challenging times.
Berggren has since held over 550 babies, noting the grounding effect of holding these tiny miracles. He states that this volunteer work offers him a sense of calm and serves as a vital component of his mental well-being. Medical director Dr. Rob Holcomb emphasizes that the volunteers' 'gentle, nurturing touch' significantly aids infant development, improving vital signs and potentially shortening hospital stays.
For his exceptional compassion and commitment, Berggren was honored with the 2026 Frist Humanitarian Award. He views this recognition as validation of his belief that kindness and the positive impact on others are the true measures of a life well-lived. His efforts highlight the profound power of human connection in healing for both babies and caregivers.
