UMass Memorial Medical Center

03/09/2026

Oh, baby... UMass Memorial Medical Center recently celebrated the arrival of triplets, Akeem (baby C), Elikai (baby B), and Eliana (baby A). The 35-week triplets can be seen here with members of our Labor and Delivery nursing team—Danielle, Beth, Heather, and Jeannie.

In the past, newborns born at 35 weeks were routinely admitted to the NICU. While this approach ensured close monitoring, it often meant that families were separated during those first critical hours and days, impacting early bonding and the family experience.

Through thoughtful review of evidence-based practices and collaboration across teams, our workflows have evolved. Today, many 35-week newborns who are stable and do not require specialized NICU care are able to remain with the birth person and family in the Maternity Center. Our Labor and Delivery team is trained and highly skilled in caring for high-risk births and is dedicated to keeping the birth person and their families safe while providing the highest quality care in every situation.

Highlighting that this change would not be possible without the dedication and growth of our Postpartum Nursing team, who have elevated their practice to safely care for this population within the Maternity Center. Their expanded knowledge and expertise allows families to stay together through the continuum of care, supporting bonding, promoting family-centered care, and enhancing the overall patient experience.

Moments like this highlight the power of teamwork, and a shared commitment to continuously improving the care we provide to families during one of life’s most meaningful milestones.

03/08/2026

March 8 is International Women’s Day — a celebration of the strength and leadership of women everywhere.

Today, we honor the incredible women of UMass Memorial Health who make a difference every day. This collage is a tribute to their dedication, compassion, and impact across our community.

03/07/2026

Make a meaningful difference in someone’s day by helping ease patients’ stress and making them feel welcome.

Join a compassionate team and gain great experience while giving back to your community!

Reach out today:

Phone: 508-334-6308
Email: volunteerservices@umassmemorial.org

03/06/2026

We’re beyond touched by this impactful community story and are so happy to hear that UMass Memorial Medical Center patient, Richard, is on such a positive healing path.

On Wednesday, March 4, the Sturbridge Fire Department held a ceremony to honor the local first responders who helped save Paradise’s life.

03/05/2026

Congratulations to Ashley Parker, RN, a clinical nurse on West 3 who was recently presented with the DAISY Award. Ashley was nominated by a patient recovering from major surgery, who described her as "the beam of light that kept me going."

"Every milestone I reached, Ashley was there to encourage me and help me get through it," the patient said, noting that Ashley made the time to accompany him on his first post-surgery walk around the unit even though she was in the charge nurse role that night. "She held my hand while I was walking in pain," he said. "We walked, and she listened to me talk about my wife's passing ... I saw other nurses help her [his wife while he cared for her at home], but never have I been the recipient of nursing care."

The patient also noted Ashley's talent for mentoring newer nurses, describing it as a "full-circle" moment of his perception of nursing. He also noted Ashley's commitment to maintaining a calm, peaceful healing environment and how she kept him involved in his own care.

"My surgery was the payload delivered to the launch pad (Ashley's floor) by the surgeons, but she got me to lift off into space and back into the real world again," he said.

The DAISY Foundation rewards and celebrates the extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care our nurses provide every day.

Nominate a nurse today: https://bit.ly/4rdE8AK

03/04/2026

At UMass Memorial Medical Center, patient care is at the heart of everything we do.

We are honored to share words of gratitude from Elaine de Carvalho, who underwent surgery earlier this year. Elaine expressed her sincere appreciation for Dr. Farid Hamzei-Sichani and the dedicated Operating Room team who supported her throughout her procedure.

03/03/2026

Thank you, Infinity Events, for reminding us about this amazing day and milestone. We are grateful for your partnership.

03/02/2026

At the recent Central Mass. Economic Forecast & Real Estate Forum, Justin Precourt, president of UMass Memorial Medical Center, served as a featured panelist discussing the economic outlook for Central Massachusetts.

Hosted by the Worcester Business Journal and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, the event brings together regional leaders to examine economic trends and growth opportunities. Justin's participation highlights UMass Memorial’s key role in strengthening the local economy and supporting business growth across the region.

📸: Alongside Justin for the discussion was Brooke Thomson, president & CEO of the statewide advocacy group Associated Industries of Massachusetts; Darnell Dunn, director of business recruitment at the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and moderator Brad Kane, editor of Worcester Business Journal.

02/28/2026

Meet Gabriel Addow, a Patient Care Technician for our Clinical Support Staff at UMass Memorial Medical Center.

"I've always felt drawn to aiding others in their most vulnerable moments. Every day, I have the chance to make a significant impact on the lives of patients and their families, whether by delivering comfort, resolving problems, or providing support at tough times. The mix of science, compassion, and cooperation inspired me to pursue this path.

My favorite aspect of my profession is developing relationships with patients and colleagues. I enjoy being a member of a team that works together to achieve a common goal: giving the best possible care. It is extremely fulfilling to see a patient improve or simply know that I contributed to making their experience slightly better.

One of the most unforgettable experiences of my career was caring for a patient who endured great hurdles but eventually reached a positive outcome. Being a part of that journey and seeing the strength of the patient, their family, and our care team reminded me why I selected this profession.

UMass Memorial Health's dedication to its caregivers and patients is one of the reasons I enjoy my job there. It really stands out for its innovative, collaborative, and community-focused culture. Being a member of a company that places a strong priority on providing compassionate, high-quality care makes me feel encouraged, appreciated, and proud.

When I'm not working, I can often be seen hanging out with loved ones, going on outdoor adventures, getting active, or watching a nice movie or book while I'm not working."

Gabriel, thank you for being such an inspiration, and for showing our patients deep compassion through their journeys.

02/28/2026

Congratulations to Dr. Kimi Kobayashi, Chief Medical Officer at UMass Memorial Medical Center and UMass Memorial Medical Group!

Being recognized by Becker's Hospital Review among the nation’s exceptional chief medical officers is a tremendous honor and a testament to outstanding leadership in health care.

Join us in applauding Dr. Kobayashi on this well-deserved recognition and for the continued impact on patients, caregivers, and the broader health care community!

Read more: https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/hospital-management-administration/252-hospital-and-health-system-chief-medical-officers-to-know-2026/

02/27/2026

"All things considered, I am feeling much better than in years. Just about a year out, I am probably back to 80%. There are up and down days, but each is a gift. The challenge is rebuilding my stamina and continuing to move forward. Dream it, think it, do it."

Since Jeff Lawrence's Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) last March, he's been steadily returning to the activities he loves — golf, pickleball, walking, skiing, and snowshoeing. "I’m not all the way back, but I’m moving forward and listening to my body."

He adds, "I’m incredibly grateful to the UMass Memorial Cardiac team and the outstanding LVAD Program. Their compassion, support, and care have truly given me a new lease on life. Feeling very blessed."

Learn more about the Ventricular Assist Device Program at UMass Memorial Medical Center: https://bit.ly/40FNWZY