MADERA, Calif. – An innovative tool in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Valley Children’s is giving parents the chance to see their baby – even when they’re miles away.
The AngelEye camera system places a bedside camera at each NICU station, allowing parents to access a live stream of their child when they can’t be physically present. The organization has installed cameras at 79 NICU beds at the Madera hospital.
“It gives these moms and dads the opportunity to feel that connection even when they can’t be here,” explained Shelbie Holden, NICU manager at Valley Children’s.
For Kelsie and Gregory Fukano, the technology provided comfort after their son, Tosh, was transferred to the NICU immediately after birth.
“When I gave birth to him, I didn’t see him at all,” Kelsie said.
Soon after, the couple was given access to Tosh’s AngelEye stream through a secure app on their phones, allowing them to check in on him at any time.
For many families, constant bedside visits aren’t possible due to work, distance or other responsibilities. Many NICU patients are also transferred from hospitals dozens or hundreds of miles away. The camera system helps bridge that gap, offering parents a way to stay connected from afar.
“It just feels like I’m with him all the time,” Kelsie said. “It’s amazing. It’s probably the best thing ever.”
The AngelEye system also allows care teams to send updates directly through the app. According to Sarah Von Ah, NICU nurse navigator at Valley Children’s, the benefits extend beyond simple connection.
“Having the ability to see their baby actually helps a lot of our moms leave, go home and just start to heal and take care of themselves,” she said. “Reconnecting a family, it’s awesome. It’s a great feeling, and I am so thankful to be able to offer that to our patients and families here at Valley Children’s.”
Holden shared a similar sentiment, emphasizing the importance of providing both care and connection.
“Being able to provide a service to them and provide a connection, it makes me feel fulfilled to be part of that. ”
For parents like the Fukanos, the impact of the program can be felt no matter how far away they are.
“This is a godsend. It makes me feel so much better because I know he’s okay, and I know he’s in the best hands as possible,” Kelsie added.
To learn more about the NICU at Valley Children’s, click here.
