It was a quick turn around, but I’m very glad that I was able to attend and present at the 2024 Gravens Conference On The Environmental Care For High Risk Newborns, in Clearwater Beach, Florida. I was there and back within 36 hours, but I made it just in time to make my presentation, say hello to some new and old friends, and I even got a few hours at the beach!

This was their 37th annual meeting, organized through the Perinatal Advisory Council: Leadership, Advocacy, And Consultation (PACLAC). Attendees included Neonatologists, Pediatricians, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, Neonatal Nurses (RNs, NNPs, ARNPs), NICU Therapists, Family Support Staff, Hospital Administration, Infant & Child Development Specialists, Social Workers, Counselors, and Parents. 

I was only able to personally catch the Saturday presentations, but I heard from others that every presentation was amazing, leaving attendees with ideas, actionable items and love. My presentation was called “How to foster meaningful connections with families, and why it matters: Lessons from my life-threatening pregnancy and premature birth journey”- and it was offered both in-person and on Zoom for those who chose the remote option for the conference. 

I am happy to share that I was not the only parent to present at the Gravens Conference this year. They invited many NICU parent advocates to speak to their attendees, and this is a testament to how much they value family partnerships and the NICU parent voice.

Maybe I’ll see some of you there next year 🙂