Celebrating Four Decades of Neonatal Care

AVMC’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit reaches its 40^th Anniversary

(LANCASTER, Calif., January 24, 2024) — Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) proudly announces the commemoration of the 40^th anniversary of its Level 3B Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For four decades, AVMC has been at the forefront of providing specialized care for premature and critically ill newborns, ensuring their health and well-being from the very first moments of life.

“Providing the care a baby needs during its ‘Golden Hour’ makes a significant difference in the baby’s outcome. It brings me vast pride to know we have provided this level of expertise and care to the AV (Antelope Valley) for 40 years,” stated Antelope Valley Medical Center NICU Medical Director and Neonatalogist, Murugesa Thangavel, MD. “It seems surreal to have started as a 5-bed unit, to now staffing a level 3B, 21-bed unit, 40 years later. I’m honored to have witnessed the unit’s growth and to have worked alongside so many caring and compassionate medical professionals.”

Since its inception in 1984, the NICU has been a beacon of hope for families. The dedicated team of neonatologists, nurses, respiratory therapists, and support staff have played a pivotal role in advancing neonatal care, ensuring a positive and comprehensive support system for the nearly 16,000 babies they have cared for over the years.

To celebrate this significant milestone, AVMC hosted a special event with current and former NICU staff and community members. The event featured guest speakers that provided a retrospective showcase of the evolution of neonatal care at AVMC, in addition to a heartfelt recognition for the dedicated professionals who have contributed to the success of the NICU over its 40-year history.

"We are immensely proud to commemorate the 40th anniversary of our NICU, a testament to our commitment to providing the highest quality care for the tiniest members of our community. This milestone is a reflection of the dedication, expertise, and compassion of our exceptional NICU team," said Edward Mirzabegian, Chief Executive Officer, Antelope Valley Medical Center.

Photo caption: Current and former Antelope Valley Medical Center NICU staff attended a reception to celebrate the NICU’s 40^th anniversary

Photo caption: Antelope Valley Medical Center NICU staff honor Dr. Murugesa Thangavel, MD at the NICU’s 40^th anniversary reception.