Twins Will and Elena Krier were born 10 weeks early, weighing in at just 3 pounds each. They were admitted to the NICU at Rush Copley Medical Center, which became their home for the next seven weeks.
Nine years later, their parents, Amy and Dan, are still grateful for their healthy children and the care they received at Rush Copley.
Dan Krier has since become a member of the Rush Copley Foundation committee that plans fundraisers to benefit programs for the community that Rush Copley serves. When asked why he felt a calling to get involved, he says, “The reason our kids are here today is because someone wanted to give back long ago. It's our responsibility to help however we can.”
Their story
At a routine pregnancy check-in, Amy Krier learned she was having contractions at just 24 weeks. She was immediately admitted to the hospital, given medication to stop the labor, and put on bed rest for the next six weeks.
“It’s emotional remembering those days," Amy says. "I had a huge support system from wonderful friends to an amazing father-in-law who played endless games of backgammon. The thing that really helped alleviate my anxiety was all the amazing nurses, doctors and volunteers who helped us manage expectations and prepare for the road ahead.”
After six weeks of getting to know the nurses and doctors throughout Rush Copley, the twins were born. Throughout their time at Rush Copley, the parents grew extremely grateful for every aspect of care they received.
“They [the nurses] were just amazing. I cannot get over how they were so calming throughout such a stressful process,” Dan says.
Anytime they had a question or concern, the doctors and nurses patiently helped them navigate through each challenge. They went out of their way to make the family feel comfortable and prepared.
Giving back
From the day that Will and Elena arrived home safe and healthy, Dan and Amy knew they wanted to get involved with Rush Copley and the NICU.
Wanting to pay it forward, Dan volunteered to help with community fundraisers and charity events hosted by Rush Copley Foundation.
One of them is Copleyshack, an annual golf outing benefiting the NICU and the Lynn and Bob Barclay Big Heart Family Fund.
The Krier family looks forward to helping every year and they encourage community members to participate. Will and Elena particularly enjoy the games that take place throughout the event, including the Ducky Drive.
“Whether you golf or just want to show your support, our family would love to see you there,” Dan and Amy said. “Will and Elena will be eager to say hello! Your involvement today helps pave the way for brighter tomorrows for future NICU parents and babies.”
