Employees at Apple’s Cork campus have been taking part in a major fundraising drive to support the building of a unique neonatal family sanctum at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH).

During the month of September, Apple employees walked, ran and cycled as part of a commitment to the 'Baby Steps Appeal', with every hour of exercise being matched by funding from Apple which will be donated directly to CUH Charity to support its Neonatal Family Sanctum Appeal.

The Neonatal Family Sanctum at CUMH will comprise of two key areas; a Neonatal Sanctum and a Parents Room nearby. 

The Parents Room will be a private area where families can take some time out from the clinical setting, make a cup of tea in a comfortable setting and avail of some privacy. 

The space will also extend out into the CUMH private central garden area, allowing parents to get some fresh air.

The Neonatal Sanctum will be a dedicated space within the central garden at CUMH. 

It will allow parents to take a baby receiving palliative care away from the busy clinical critical care environment. Parents will be able to experience the joy of nature with their baby while ensuring that the baby receives comforting care in a quiet, peaceful setting.

Professor John Higgins, Clinical Director at CUMH said the Neonatal Family Sanctum will be a vital addition to the hospital. 

"The Neonatal Family Sanctum will provide an important space for families, helping them to create cherished memories that will last forever in an area that gives dignity, sensitivity and privacy," he said.

"We are making a statement with this sanctum, that we are absolutely committed to families. 

"We are there for them during these difficult moments. 

"This is at the very heart of the service we provide at CUMH," Professor Higgins continued. 

Apple's participation in the fundraising drive is the latest in a series of initiatives they have undertaken to support Cork University Hospital Charity. 

In June, 400 Apple employees raised over €100,000 for the hospital’s Strike Against Stroke campaign to help fund a new rehabilitation gym for stroke patients. 

During the last few months, employees at Apple’s Cork campus have been donating communications technology and sharing vital expertise to aid Ireland’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

This included the donation of iPads to CUH to allow patients in Covid-19 wards to remain in contact with their families and collaborating on the development of a triage app which allowed for rapid diagnosis of Covid-19 patients.