The father of a premature baby has provided cuddle care to more than 550 babies over the past 3 years, providing comfort and helping to speed up their recovery.
Since Terry Berggren began volunteering with Warm Arms in May 2023, he has provided comfort to over 550 babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), something which he describes as an “honour”.
“There is something incredibly grounding about holding a tiny little miracle”, Terry stated, adding, “It reminds me of what really matters in life”.
“For a few hours, the deadlines, pressures, and distractions of the outside world fade away. I’m able to slow down, be fully present, and make a meaningful difference in a way that is deeply personal”, he said.
A data analyst by profession, Terry revealed that he had had personal experience of the challenges of premature babies requiring time in hospitals’ neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
“My oldest was a premmie, and it scared the heck out of me. Later, we lost a grandchild after an extended period in the NICU”, Terry explained.
“After that experience, I asked myself, ‘Do I walk away because of the fear and heartbreak I’ve experienced, or do I run toward the fire to help others facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives?’ I chose the latter”, the father and grandfather added.
Now, Terry spends much of his free time volunteering with the organisation Warm Arms to cuddle premature babies when their parents are unable to be with them.
Physical touch can reduce how long premature babies have to remain in the NICU, doctor says
Dr Rob Holcomb, a neonatologist who is the medical director of the hospital where Terry volunteers, said that the physical touch and comfort provided by volunteers is an “integral and intricate part” of the care that premature babies receive.
“The power of human touch is remarkable, and nowhere is it more meaningful and relevant than in the neonatal intensive care unit”, the doctor explained.
“Research has shown that when premmies are held and rocked, their vital signs and oxygen levels improve, stimulating better neurodevelopment and overall growth, often resulting in a shorter length of stay”, Dr Holcomb added.
“While nothing replaces the bond between a baby and their family, Warm Arms volunteers like Terry play a meaningful role in supporting our tiniest patients, while complementing the specialised medical care our NICU team provides”, he explained.
“Their compassion makes a difference for both our babies and their families”.
In recognition of the dedication Terry has shown to these premature babies, he received the 2026 Frist Humanitarian Award, one of the highest achievements the hospital offers.
“The Humanitarian Award meant more to me than I can put into words”, Terry said.
“My measurement of a successful life is the kindness you show, the trust you inspire, the love you give, and the lives you touch that define your true worth. Character is your legacy, and the goodness you leave in someone’s heart is a gift that endures long after the moment has passed”, he said.
Spokesperson for Right To Life UK, Catherine Robinson, said “Terry and those who volunteer their time like him provide an invaluable service in which premature babies can be comforted even if their parents are not able to be beside them at all times.
“We are glad that Terry’s dedication is being rewarded by the hospital and hope he can continue to help look after these tiny babies”.
