World Prematurity Day: Pasewalkers help the very little ones!

World Prematurity Day: Pasewalkers help the very little ones!

On November 17, 2025, World Prematurity Day is dedicated to the little fighters who are often born too early. Berenike Thiede, the founder of the Uecker-Randow network for premature babies, is using this special day to draw attention to the challenges and needs of premature babies and their families. The network is planning an exciting event: On November 21, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., a city rally will take place in Pasewalk under the motto “Get your socks on.”

During this rally, participants are asked to look for colored socks in shop windows and also collect stamps in various shops. Anyone who collects at least seven stamps can look forward to a little surprise at the Preemie Network stand at the Old Pasewalker Market. Thiede would especially like to thank the many volunteers who have been knitting and crocheting for premature babies with a lot of passion since 2013 in order to support the little ones in clinics in Pasewalk and Greifswald.

Help for families of premature babies

Parents of premature babies face many challenges, especially in the first few weeks of their lives. A premature baby is defined as a baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy and usually requires intensive medical care. Once home, parents can often take responsibility for the care of their child after just a few days or weeks. The network is also planning to create an information booklet that will inform parents about offers from network partners in the region, which would provide valuable support.

A special consultation for premature babies is also offered and takes place in Berenike Thiede's occupational therapy practice and in the DRK pregnancy counseling center in Pasewalk. This consultation hour is supported by the Ministry of Labor, Equality and Social Affairs. Anyone interested can register by calling 03973 443336 and receive valuable information and support to better deal with the challenges.

Financial support and advice

The financial situation of parents whose children are born prematurely is also an important issue. Statutory health insurance covers many costs that arise in connection with the birth and care of premature babies. These include, among other things, travel costs to the clinics, support from household help, and various therapy costs. There are also advisory services that help parents get the best support. For example, you can use the hotline of the Federal Association for Premature Children, which is available on working days.

With all of these offers and the upcoming city rally, World Prematurity Day not only draws attention to the existing challenges, but also sets a sign of cohesion in the community. The Uecker-Randow network invites everyone to take part, because together we stand strong for everyone's loved ones.

Further information is available on the network's website: Uecker-Randow. For comprehensive support on topics relating to premature babies, we recommend taking a look at the family portal's information page: Family portal.