Hello! My Name is Sienna Lily Wielkotz and I was born on September 10, 2020. I made an early appearance being born over eight weeks early and weighed only 3 lbs. 6 oz. Due to this unexpected entrance into the world it was necessary for me to spend 55 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Hackensack Meridian Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital.

One constant throughout my time at the NICU was the incredible staff. The doctors, nurses, therapists, administrative staff, and everyone else working in the NICU treated me like their own and truly played a massive part in the child I am today. The list of people who helped me is endless. They played such an important role in my early development and supported my parents on a constant basis. We as a family will be forever greatful to the entire team.

To honor these amazing individuals, I will be participating in in the NICUSTRONG Walk 2022.

All money raised funds innovative treatment, cutting-edge equipment, much-needed research and support for our babies and families of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Hackensack Meridian Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Hackensack Meridian Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital admits about 940 newborns each year, so the need is great for innovative treatment and care. Approximately 80 newborns weigh less than 1,500 grams (that is approximately 3lbs., 5oz!). In 2018, NICUSTRONG was formed in support of these babies and their families. Since its inception, the walk has raised over $300,000, largely due to the tremendous support of teams like us. So far, funding has helped support life-like manikins for vital education purposes, critical research, parent programs and more!

Please consider supporting this walk with a meaningful amount – just $10, $25, or $50 – will make a significant difference! Gifts can be made to my personal page (link below).

Thank you for your generosity and support. Together we can make a difference for these families and babies like me!