NICU babies celebrate holiday season in ‘ugly’ Christmas sweaters

By Michael Lee Simpson

Premature babies in a neonatal intensive care unit were dressed in festive “ugly” holiday sweaters to celebrate Christmas.

The handmade outfits were made as keepsakes for the tiny patients and their parents in Cleveland Clinic Children’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

The felt sweaters and crochet hats featured the Grinch, a snowman, a gingerbread and a festive flamingo.

The initiative highlights the NICU team’s commitment to both medical care and emotional support for families.

For parents Casey and Tyler Graber, seeing their daughter Ava — who has spent more than 100 days in the ICU — dressed in her holiday outfit was a joyful and unforgettable moment.

“We loved seeing Ava in her holiday outfit,” the couple said.

“It was the perfect mix of sweetness and fun. It’s a memory we’ll share with family and Ava for years to come.”

Parents, nurses and caregivers worked together to carefully dress the babies in festive attire.

Hospital staff say the outfits are meant to serve as lasting reminders of joy during a chapter that can be filled with stress and uncertainty.

Every baby in the Cleveland Clinic Children’s NICU has unique medical needs and is monitored around the clock by a highly trained clinical team.

While medical care remains the priority, caregivers emphasize the importance of emotional support for families navigating extended hospital stays, particularly during the holidays.

“Sharing these special moments with families brings a sense of joy and normalcy during an otherwise challenging time,” said Therese Razzante, NICU family support specialist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

“These celebrations help parents embrace milestones, build meaningful connections, and reflect the unwavering compassion of our caregivers in the NICU.”