NICU Graduates Celebrated at Marian Regional Medical Center’s Annual Reunion

Former NICU babies and their families enjoy fun and festivities while reuniting with the physicians and staff members that cared for them 

SANTA MARIA, Calif. – April 18, 2026 –  Dignity Health’s Marian Regional Medical Center (MRMC) hosted its annual Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Reunion on Saturday, bringing together hundreds of families and hospital personnel for a heartwarming celebration of life and resilience. 

The annual event provided a special opportunity for families to reconnect with the dedicated nurses, doctors, and staff members who cared for their precious little ones during their stay in Marian’s NICU.  The reunion featured a variety of activities for all ages, including face painting, crafts, a photo booth, food, and music. 

“This reunion is a testament to the incredible strength and resilience of our NICU families,” said Dr. Rocky Greer, Medical Director of Neonatology at Marian Regional Medical Center. “It’s a joy to see these children, who once needed specialized care, thriving and growing alongside their families. We are incredibly proud of the work our NICU team does to provide the highest level of care to our tiniest patients – it's truly a privilege to serve these families and our community as a whole."

The event saw a strong turnout of hospital staff, including caregivers, neonatologists, and nurses, alongside community partners such as the Santa Maria Fire Department, Santa Maria Police Department, volunteers from Marian Regional Medical Center and the Children’s Resource Network, all eager to welcome the graduates.

"Seeing our NICU graduates thrive as healthy, happy kids is the ultimate reward. It's a testament to the dedication of our team and the resilience of these amazing children and their families," said Sue Andersen, President and CEO of Marian Regional Medical Center.  "Thousands of lives have been touched by our NICU and this event serves as a great reminder of the impact a specialized unit like this can have on our community.”

The annual NICU reunion also stands as a testament to the hospital’s dedication to supporting families and celebrating the triumphs of life and a reminder that Marian remains committed to providing exceptional care to all patients, especially the most vulnerable. Marian’s 21-bed, Community (Level III) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is the most sophisticated and technologically-advanced unit in the region, providing exceptional care to the tiniest of patients.

For additional information or questions about Marian Regional Medical Center’s NICU, please visit Dignityhealth.org/Marian.

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About Marian Regional Medical Center
Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 191-bed medical center located in Santa Maria, California. The modern facility is home to a broad array of services including a level II trauma center, a level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a nationally recognized cardiac care center, and boasts the Central Coast’s only Comprehensive Community Cancer Program as recognized by the Commission on Cancer. 

About Dignity Health Central Coast
Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.