At the break of dawn in Xi'an, unsung heroes emerge at the Northwest Women and Children's Hospital. Donor mothers like He Xiaojing start their day by offering more than just milk – they give hope. Adjusting her electric breast pump, He writes a heartfelt message on her donation card: "Wishing you strength until you’re back in your parents' arms."
Every drop donated undergoes rigorous testing – from bacteriological and viral screenings to Holder pasteurization – before being portioned into sterilized bags and frozen at –20°C. These carefully handled "life contracts" are then sent to neonatal intensive care units, where even the smallest amounts can make a huge difference for preterm infants.
Behind each donation lies a unique journey. Some white-collar workers squeeze in a quick visit during lunch breaks, while devoted mothers brave chilly mornings, with one woman even traveling 24 kilometers across Xi'an just to deliver a fresh supply. Their combined efforts support infants born as early as 24 weeks and weighing as little as 400 grams, significantly reducing risks such as necrotizing enterocolitis and infections.
Since its launch in April 2022, the hospital's milk bank has served 703 premature infants with nearly 470,000 milliliters of donated milk from 490 generous mothers. However, a recent surge in NICU admissions means that current reserves cover barely three more days of feedings. In response, head nurse Wang Qian issued an urgent online appeal on March 16, outlining strict donor criteria to ensure each donation meets safety standards.
Social media has become a vital tool as donors form support groups to coordinate deliveries to about 27 hospitals nationwide. Although operational costs average 1,500 yuan per 100 milliliters due to testing, pasteurization, and cold-chain logistics, every extra ounce donated is a beacon of hope for these tiny fighters. 💖
This heartwarming initiative reflects a broader aspiration: a future where a standardized network of milk banks ensures that every city can provide the vital care needed by our most fragile patients. It’s a true display of community spirit and the power of small acts to create huge impacts.
Reference(s):
Donor Mothers Supply Lifesaving Breast Milk to Premature Infants in Xi’an
bjnews.com.cn
