The 25 Club

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You are here: Home / Nursery Stories

Nursery Stories

Nursery Stories

The Nursery Stories share the testimonials of the patients, families, doctors, caregivers, Club members, and others who bear testimony to the work of The 25 Club.  Lillian Reese, as one of the founding members, created a tradition of writing successful Nursery Stories for the lives of many infants in the Pittsburgh area and around the world.  Please consider these Nursery Stories and also consider supporting The 25 Cub.  

Lillian Reese, founder of The 25 Club

Lillian Reese

“The babies of today are our future citizens of tomorrow. Let us hope to give them a healthy normal start, not only for Pittsburgh or Allegheny County or for all Americans, but for all of the babies in all of the world.”

Lillian Reese, founding member

The 25 Club
2016-07-29T16:23:27-04:00

Lillian Reese, founding member

“The babies of today are our future citizens of tomorrow. Let us hope to give them a healthy normal start, not only for Pittsburgh or Allegheny County or for all Americans, but for all of the babies in all of the world.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/428/
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The 25 Club

25 women do the work of 100 volunteers

"As I become more involved with this dedicated group of women, I realize that, not only do we as a club provide research dollars that benefit the babies and their families in Magee’s NICU, but our research dollars reach way beyond Pittsburgh. Our group of only 25 women do the work of 100 and, as volunteers,….they never cease to amaze me. I am privileged to call myself a member of this club."

Jeanne Caliguiri, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:22:58-04:00

Jeanne Caliguiri, Twenty-Five Club Member

"As I become more involved with this dedicated group of women, I realize that, not only do we as a club provide research dollars that benefit the babies and their families in Magee’s NICU, but our research dollars reach way beyond Pittsburgh. Our group of only 25 women do the work of 100 and, as volunteers,….they never cease to amaze me. I am privileged to call myself a member of this club."
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/test-1-enter-highlight/
Arlene Sokolow - The 25 Club member.

Friendship and hard work create worldwide impact

“Combining friendship with hard work, The 25 Club members have raised funds enabling cutting edge research at Magee hospital. The local and worldwide impact of this research is both powerful and awe inspiring.”

Arlene Sokolow, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:24:38-04:00

Arlene Sokolow, Twenty-Five Club Member

Arlene Sokolow - The 25 Club member.
“Combining friendship with hard work, The 25 Club members have raised funds enabling cutting edge research at Magee hospital. The local and worldwide impact of this research is both powerful and awe inspiring.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/friendship-hard-work-create-worldwide-impact/
Carol Massaro - The 25 Club member

Premature babies care requires focus and funding

“With all the advances in new born medicine, babies are still being born too early. Because of all the research paid for by The 25 Club, these babies are being saved. Babies, who are sometimes only one pound at birth, now can survive and thrive. More research is needed to help these babies stay in the womb longer so that their survival rate is better. We are committed to saving the tiniest of babies”

Carol Massaro, Twenty-Five Club member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:26:26-04:00

Carol Massaro, Twenty-Five Club member

Carol Massaro - The 25 Club member
“With all the advances in new born medicine, babies are still being born too early. Because of all the research paid for by The 25 Club, these babies are being saved. Babies, who are sometimes only one pound at birth, now can survive and thrive. More research is needed to help these babies stay in the womb longer so that their survival rate is better. We are committed to saving the tiniest of babies”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/premature-babies-care-requires-focus-funding/
Penny Holden - The 25 Club member

Newborn care impacted by positive energy

“As a member of The Twenty-Five Club, I am inspired by this group of women who bring their individual talents and positive energy to the common goal of supporting newborn medicine, Neonatal research and clinical care at Magee-Womens Hospital.”

Penny Holden, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:28:43-04:00

Penny Holden, Twenty-Five Club Member

Penny Holden - The 25 Club member
“As a member of The Twenty-Five Club, I am inspired by this group of women who bring their individual talents and positive energy to the common goal of supporting newborn medicine, Neonatal research and clinical care at Magee-Womens Hospital.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/newborn-care-impacted-positive-energy/
Michel Franklin - The 25 Club member

Current 25 Club member a beneficiary at birth

“Magee has saved my life, numerous times — at my birth as one of this regions earliest preemies and also at the age of 37, when I was diagnosed with a potentially fatal illness.  Life, is something to be cherished at any age.  And so, one cannot overpraise the research that is spearheaded currently at UPMC — from neonatal care — saving the most fragile and youngest of lives …... to its cancer treatment and research.  Magee touches and protects everyone across this region — through its research.  I feel fortunate to be part of these 25 lovely women who help the NICU babies and more……”

Michel Franklin, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:30:04-04:00

Michel Franklin, Twenty-Five Club Member

Michel Franklin - The 25 Club member
“Magee has saved my life, numerous times — at my birth as one of this regions earliest preemies and also at the age of 37, when I was diagnosed with a potentially fatal illness.  Life, is something to be cherished at any age.  And so, one cannot overpraise the research that is spearheaded currently at UPMC — from neonatal care — saving the most fragile and youngest of lives …... to its cancer treatment and research.  Magee touches and protects everyone across this region — through its research.  I feel fortunate to be part of these 25 lovely women who help the NICU babies and more……”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/current-25-club-member-beneficiary-birth/
Jill Nolan - 25 Club Member

Continuing Founder’s Legacy

"It is a privilege to be a part of an organization with a long and rich history of improving the lives of infants and families throughout Pittsburgh and our region.  We are continuing our founder’s legacy of love and service."

Jill Nolan, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:31:41-04:00

Jill Nolan, Twenty-Five Club Member

Jill Nolan - 25 Club Member
"It is a privilege to be a part of an organization with a long and rich history of improving the lives of infants and families throughout Pittsburgh and our region.  We are continuing our founder’s legacy of love and service."
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/continuing-founders-legacy/
Judy Woffington - 25 Club member

Drops of water become an ocean of effort

"The 25 Club’s most precious possession is the women we have volunteering and our ability to work together.  Individually, we are one drop.  Together we are an ocean. As a group our efforts are extensive. We work hard to provide funds that enable new-born babies take their first breathe, and for doctor’s research that goes worldwide."

Judy Woffington, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-03T18:37:58-04:00

Judy Woffington, Twenty-Five Club Member

Judy Woffington - 25 Club member
"The 25 Club’s most precious possession is the women we have volunteering and our ability to work together.  Individually, we are one drop.  Together we are an ocean. As a group our efforts are extensive. We work hard to provide funds that enable new-born babies take their first breathe, and for doctor’s research that goes worldwide."
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/drops-water-become-ocean-effort/
Debbie Barbarita - The 25 Club Vice President, Finance.

77 years of tireless effort helps the tiniest of babies

"This awesome group of 25 women have worked tirelessly for 77 years - contributing in amazing ways to the wellbeing of the tiniest of babies born not only at Magee-Womens Hospital, but throughout the world. With all The Twenty-Five Club has accomplished with only twenty-five active members…. I am more than proud to be able to say that I am one of the twenty-five." 

Debbie Barbarita, Twenty-Five Club Member, Magee-Womens Hospital Board of Director.

The 25 Club
2016-08-04T16:20:22-04:00

Debbie Barbarita, Twenty-Five Club Member, Magee-Womens Hospital Board of Director.

Debbie Barbarita - The 25 Club Vice President, Finance.
"This awesome group of 25 women have worked tirelessly for 77 years - contributing in amazing ways to the wellbeing of the tiniest of babies born not only at Magee-Womens Hospital, but throughout the world. With all The Twenty-Five Club has accomplished with only twenty-five active members…. I am more than proud to be able to say that I am one of the twenty-five." 
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/77-years-tireless-effort-helps-tiniest-babies/
Heather Hillier - The 25 Club Corresponding Secretary

Neonatal Journey impacted by organizations efforts

“It is such an honor and a privilege to be involved with such a worthy organization that have impacted so many babies and their courageous families throughout their neonatal journey”

Heather Hillier, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-15T13:55:56-04:00

Heather Hillier, Twenty-Five Club Member

Heather Hillier - The 25 Club Corresponding Secretary
“It is such an honor and a privilege to be involved with such a worthy organization that have impacted so many babies and their courageous families throughout their neonatal journey”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/neonatal-journey-impacted-organizations-efforts/
Kathleen Hess - 25 Club Vice President, Membership

Research and Care accomplishments drive Club’s efforts

It’s been a privilege to be part of the legacy of The Twenty-Five Club and to continue to expand on the goals accomplished over the years to support the NICU at Magee Womens Hospital. In addition, it gives me great satisfaction to promote the mission of The Twenty-Five Club supporting newborn medicine, prenatal and neonatal research, and clinical care.

Kathleen Hess, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-15T13:58:26-04:00

Kathleen Hess, Twenty-Five Club Member

Kathleen Hess - 25 Club Vice President, Membership
It’s been a privilege to be part of the legacy of The Twenty-Five Club and to continue to expand on the goals accomplished over the years to support the NICU at Magee Womens Hospital. In addition, it gives me great satisfaction to promote the mission of The Twenty-Five Club supporting newborn medicine, prenatal and neonatal research, and clinical care.
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/research-care-accomplishments-drive-clubs-efforts/
Doris Shepherd - The 25 Club member

33 years of service provides perspective on Club’s Work

“It has been a pleasure and my honor to have had the opportunity to serve as a member of the 25 Club of Magee-Womens Hospital since 1983. Over the course of these 33 years, I have seen the organization advance in the areas of research and technology as it continues to expand its storied legacy, which began in 1939, to new levels.  Our Club’s mission, to serve the neonatal population of Magee, is of the utmost importance as it provides a chance for quality of life for our most precious and vulnerable treasures.  As a result, our achievements and positive outcomes can serve and benefit patients not only regionally but worldwide. As I witness the enthusiasm, energy and capabilities of our newer members, I am comforted in the realization that our organization is poised to continue its mission into the future with the same intensity, selflessness, generosity and grace that has served as our foundation.”

Doris Shepherd – Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-15T14:15:09-04:00

Doris Shepherd – Twenty-Five Club Member

Doris Shepherd - The 25 Club member
“It has been a pleasure and my honor to have had the opportunity to serve as a member of the 25 Club of Magee-Womens Hospital since 1983. Over the course of these 33 years, I have seen the organization advance in the areas of research and technology as it continues to expand its storied legacy, which began in 1939, to new levels.  Our Club’s mission, to serve the neonatal population of Magee, is of the utmost importance as it provides a chance for quality of life for our most precious and vulnerable treasures.  As a result, our achievements and positive outcomes can serve and benefit patients not only regionally but worldwide. As I witness the enthusiasm, energy and capabilities of our newer members, I am comforted in the realization that our organization is poised to continue its mission into the future with the same intensity, selflessness, generosity and grace that has served as our foundation.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/706/
Dani-Jo McLane, 25 Club member

5 Weeks in NICU, Club member remembers with thanks.

The NICU was our home away from home for 5 weeks. Every doctor & nurse answered all of our questions and took amazing care of our baby girl. We are so thankful for the expertise & compassion of the entire staff of the Magee NICU.

Dani Jo McLane, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-15T15:10:24-04:00

Dani Jo McLane, Twenty-Five Club Member

Dani-Jo McLane, 25 Club member
The NICU was our home away from home for 5 weeks. Every doctor & nurse answered all of our questions and took amazing care of our baby girl. We are so thankful for the expertise & compassion of the entire staff of the Magee NICU.
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/721/
Dani Grego - 25 Club Member

Friendship, Satisfaction, Opportunity, and Pride in service to vulnerable newborns

“Over the many years as a member of The Twenty-Five Club, I have acquired: FRIENDSHIP, spending time with and learning from the members of Club and Staff at Magee;  SATISFACTION,  working long and hard to fulfill the pledges to which we have committed;  OPPORTUNITY, to meet the Doctors who presented their progress reports and help us understand basic medical terminology; and PRIDE, in contributing to the medical endeavors which enhance nutrition, growth and development of our smallest, most vulnerable newborns.

This has been a valuable experience for me and I have truly enjoyed every committee and group that I have had the honor of serving with.”

Dani Grego, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-16T00:57:14-04:00

Dani Grego, Twenty-Five Club Member

Dani Grego - 25 Club Member
“Over the many years as a member of The Twenty-Five Club, I have acquired: FRIENDSHIP, spending time with and learning from the members of Club and Staff at Magee;  SATISFACTION,  working long and hard to fulfill the pledges to which we have committed;  OPPORTUNITY, to meet the Doctors who presented their progress reports and help us understand basic medical terminology; and PRIDE, in contributing to the medical endeavors which enhance nutrition, growth and development of our smallest, most vulnerable newborns. This has been a valuable experience for me and I have truly enjoyed every committee and group that I have had the honor of serving with.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/friendship-satisfaction-opportunity-pride-service-vulnerable-newborns/
Janice Hacket - 25 Club Member

75 day journey in NICU experienced first hand by 25 Club member

"We ended up in the NICU unexpectedly when our son was born at  28 weeks.  This started our 75 day journey. We didn't know what to expect. The level of care and compassion we received from the doctors and nurses far exceeded any expectations we had. I always say “miracles happen in the NICU at Magee”.

Janice Hackett, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-16T02:29:02-04:00

Janice Hackett, Twenty-Five Club Member

Janice Hacket - 25 Club Member
"We ended up in the NICU unexpectedly when our son was born at  28 weeks.  This started our 75 day journey. We didn't know what to expect. The level of care and compassion we received from the doctors and nurses far exceeded any expectations we had. I always say “miracles happen in the NICU at Magee”.
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/75-day-journey-nicu-experienced-first-hand-25-club-member/
Veronica Guarino - The 25 Club Member

Babies shown love from earliest days

"We will probably never meet most of the babies we help, but they will go into the world knowing that someone can love you without ever meeting you." 

Veronica Guarino, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-16T16:08:48-04:00

Veronica Guarino, Twenty-Five Club Member

Veronica Guarino - The 25 Club Member
"We will probably never meet most of the babies we help, but they will go into the world knowing that someone can love you without ever meeting you." 
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/babies-shown-love-earliest-days/
Kathe Patrinos - 25 Club President

Club Member see child and grandchild in NICU

"Magee’s NICU in 1978 was the home of my first baby for 14 days that I credit for overcoming the 50% odds of survival given her and giving us the joy of parenthood and faith in life. So 36 years later when my first granddaughter spent 10 days in the same NICU, my faith in Magee’s care calmed our family and justified the time I give trying to help The 25 Club accomplish their mission."

Kathe Patrinos, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-16T16:15:14-04:00

Kathe Patrinos, Twenty-Five Club Member

Kathe Patrinos - 25 Club President
"Magee’s NICU in 1978 was the home of my first baby for 14 days that I credit for overcoming the 50% odds of survival given her and giving us the joy of parenthood and faith in life. So 36 years later when my first granddaughter spent 10 days in the same NICU, my faith in Magee’s care calmed our family and justified the time I give trying to help The 25 Club accomplish their mission."
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/club-member-see-child-grandchild-nicu/
Peggy Snavely - 25 Club Recording Secretary

Giving best start possible result of hard work

“ It is my honor to work hard to help our Magee newborn babies get the best start in life as possible! They are our future! "

Peggy Snavely - Twenty-Five Club Member, Board of Director/ Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation

The 25 Club
2016-08-19T17:58:05-04:00

Peggy Snavely - Twenty-Five Club Member, Board of Director/ Magee-Womens Research Institute and Foundation

Peggy Snavely - 25 Club Recording Secretary
“ It is my honor to work hard to help our Magee newborn babies get the best start in life as possible! They are our future! "
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/giving-best-start-possible-result-hard-work/
Susan Fitzsimmons - 25 Club Member

20 years a member of The 25 Club provides live changing experiences

"I have been a member of The 25 Club for a little more than 20 years.  During that time, we have made contributions, both large and small, consistently.  the result of those many contributions have been live changing....not just for the members of The 25 Club, but more importantly for the babies in the Neonatal unit and their families.  The experiences are something that one normally just reads about......these littles patients grow strong, while we see the results of our efforts!!  This is so rewarding!"

Susan Fitzsimmons, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-19T18:09:19-04:00

Susan Fitzsimmons, Twenty-Five Club Member

Susan Fitzsimmons - 25 Club Member
"I have been a member of The 25 Club for a little more than 20 years.  During that time, we have made contributions, both large and small, consistently.  the result of those many contributions have been live changing....not just for the members of The 25 Club, but more importantly for the babies in the Neonatal unit and their families.  The experiences are something that one normally just reads about......these littles patients grow strong, while we see the results of our efforts!!  This is so rewarding!"
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/799/
Shanon Mahramas - 25 Club Member

Parents of Miracle give thanks

"We are parents of a miracle!  We will forever be grateful for the devotion and support of the doctors, nurses and The 25 Club of Magee-Womens Hospital."

Shanon Mahramas, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-19T18:11:19-04:00

Shanon Mahramas, Twenty-Five Club Member

Shanon Mahramas - 25 Club Member
"We are parents of a miracle!  We will forever be grateful for the devotion and support of the doctors, nurses and The 25 Club of Magee-Womens Hospital."
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/parents-miracle-give-thanks/
Barbara Mendlowitz - 25 Club Member

Member appreciates specific mission of The 25 Club

“It is a joy to belong to this group of women who initiated the very first specific care dedicated to newborns and newborn research as their mission.”

Barbara Mendlowitz, Twenty-Five Club Member

The 25 Club
2016-08-22T20:36:32-04:00

Barbara Mendlowitz, Twenty-Five Club Member

Barbara Mendlowitz - 25 Club Member
“It is a joy to belong to this group of women who initiated the very first specific care dedicated to newborns and newborn research as their mission.”
https://www.the25club.org/testimonials/member-appreciates-specific-mission-25-club/
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