The concept behind NICU 101 was inspired by the premature birth of the McNealy's own daughter Camden at 31 weeks, and her subsequent 7 week stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This time was extremely difficult for the entire family, and they found it especially difficult to find good sources for information and products for their tiny little girl. They were also struck by the limited availability of typical baby products like birth announcements and baby books for their situation. With around 500,000 babies being born prematurely each year, and many others being hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit due to birth defects or other medical concerns, they felt inspired to tackle that problem and help those families affected by life in the NICU.

NICU 101's first product line is their NICU Expressions NICU Homecoming Announcements. These announcements serve as an alternative to traditional birth announcements, and include places to fill in the baby's birth and discharge stats.

In addition to being the the founder and president of NICU 101, Kristie McNealy, MD, is a graduate of University of Colorado School of Medicine. In addition to designing new products for NICU 101, she is actively involved in promoting family centered care in the NICU, and designs educational materials for physicians and nurses about life in the NICU from the family’s perspective.

You can check out NICU 101 at NICU 101 - Support and Unique Products for Parents of Preemies. Also check the products page, and the preemie parenting forums.