Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center is pleased to announce the introduction of the Loving Arms program.
Loving Arms brings volunteers and addicted babies together to help the healing process. The program was formed in response to the increasing number of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) babies. NAS babies are often inconsolable and require extra time in loving arms.
“This is something I’ve been wanting to do for years,” explains organizer, Joanne McCoubrey, RNC, NICU Staff Nurse. “Sentara Obici began a program in response to the increased number of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome babies which was quite successful. Nationwide, and here in the Commonwealth, NAS is a growing concern.”
NAS is a group of conditions caused when a baby withdraws from certain drugs he’s exposed to in the womb before birth. While signs and symptoms vary from baby to baby, they can include low birth weight, body shakes, seizures, fussiness, and poor feeding, just to name a few. Studies have shown swaddling a baby, constant contact and dim, quiet surroundings are just some ways to help NAS babies through withdrawals.
“Studies have shown that nurseries that have similar programs in place see a decrease in their treatment course and the amount of time babies spend in the NICU,” says McCoubrey.
That’s why Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center is recruiting volunteers to lend a hand. After undergoing a thorough screening, five volunteers were in the first training class to learn how to soothe and comfort the babies in the NICU.
“Our volunteers make such a difference to our patients, families, and guests day in and day out, it’s wonderful they’ll now be able to provide a little extra TLC to help these babies achieve the best outcomes,” says Beverly Brevard, Team Coordinator of Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center’s Volunteer Services.
The new program is looking for volunteers who can come in on the “as needed basis” for three-hour blocks. If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about the program, contact Brevard at 703-523-1345.
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In loving memory of John Fasulo, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 94.
Catch a night of laughter and Shakespearean fun with The Comedy of Errors on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 8 p.m. Presented by The Acting Company, this modern verse translation by 2022 Tony Award nominee Christina Anderson brings a fresh twist to one of Shakespeare’s earliest and most beloved comedies.
Expect mistaken identities, hilarious chaos, and a race against the clock as Antipholus and his servant, Dromio, navigate a world of confusion.
Are you looking to add a furry friend to your family? The Prince William County Animal Shelter is making it easier than ever. In honor of World Spay Day, the shelter is hosting a special adoption event to cover the cost of a standard spay or neuter fee for all adoptions from February 21 to 25, 2025.
A significant winter storm is set to blanket the region with heavy snowfall on Tuesday, with accumulations reaching up to six inches in some areas, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Baltimore-Washington office.
Forecasters warn that a prolonged period of snowfall is expected, beginning early Tuesday morning and continuing into Wednesday. The storm is the result of a broad upper trough bringing Gulf moisture into the area, combined with cold air entrenched over the region due to a high-pressure system to the northeast.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
