Philanthropy Focus: Visiting Hushabye Nursery

I recently went to visit Hushabye Nursery, a center created in response to the opioid epidemic in our country. When I walked through the front door, I was greeted by a very calm, serene space, perfectly suited for moms and their newborn babies. Executive Director and Co-Founder, Tara Sundem has created something special right in downtown Phoenix.

 The center focuses on families whose babies are born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.  The struggles faced by babies who are born exposed to opioids are heartbreaking, as are the many challenges faced by their moms. Hushabye Nursery embraces the entire family. They bring infants through detox in the most skilled and compassionate way possible: dim lighting, quiet surroundings, and boundless hours of rocking and cuddling.  Moms, dads, or other caregivers are also provided with services, both before the birth as well as onsite while they remain with their babies throughout the recovery process. 

As many of you may know, March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the vital role of women in American history. I had set a challenge for myself– to leverage my own influence to shine a light on BOLD women who pave the way for change.

Tara is certainly one of those. I am inspired by Tara and what she’s created.  Having spent more than 28 years in large, hospital neonatal units, pushing up against bureaucracies to demand better outcomes for opioid-exposed babies, she ultimately had the courage to take matters into her own hands.  

Thank you, Tara, for inspiring us all.  To the team and families at Hushabye Nursery – thank you for sharing with me, educating me, and giving me a peek into your special oasis.