Bexar County NICU Graduates Celebrate Halloween at Morgan’s Wonderland

San Antonio families with children who were born prematurely or have developmental needs gathered at Morgan’s Wonderland on Sunday for University Health’s annual Fall Fest. The event marked a holiday celebration for hundreds of young patients who have received medical services through the health center’s specialized care programs.

Participants wore costumes and moved through the park, which is designed to accommodate people with various mobility challenges. The venue features attractions such as a ferris wheel, slides, and carousels built specifically for children with special needs. Families also participated in trick-or-treating activities throughout the park grounds.

The children attending the festival are alumni of three University Health programs that support premature infants and those with ongoing medical needs. These include the PREMIEre program for premature babies, the NICU Graduate Program, and the Comprehensive Care Clinic. The NICU Graduate Program provides medical, developmental, and nutritional support for preemies during their first two years of life. The Comprehensive Care Clinic offers broader support services for these children during their first five years.

Dr. Glen Medellin, a palliative pediatrician at University Health who treats many of the attendees, spoke to the value of the gathering. He noted that the event allows families to step away from clinical settings and enjoy a shared experience. Medellin observed that seeing the children in this environment provides a sense of accomplishment for the medical team and the families alike.

“It’s beautiful to see these children out here, not sick and with their families,” Medellin said. “It makes them feel normal.” The health center organized the outing to connect graduates from its different support tracks with one another in a community setting outside the hospital.