Hello Everyone! Markham Stouffville Hospital along with the Ontario Music Therapy Academy are conducting research in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) under the supervision of Dr. Navneet Sharma. The NICU is responsible for the care of infants who are born prematurely, has a low birth weight or requires special needs. Infants in the NICU are routinely subjected to painful procedures such as blood draws (heel stick). Research supports the use of music for reducing stress and pain perception, the use of music has shown added value to development. In order to have music therapy as a standard of care in Markham Stouffville Hospital and other NICU departments these initial research trials are essential.

In efforts to raise money for this research trial and future research, baby candles have been made and will be sold for $15 per candle. These candles are organic, vegan and are lightly fragranced with lavender and coconut essential oils. The candles can be used for birthdays, baby showers, or simply as a decorative candle! Candles have been hand made by one of the lead researchers of the study and any further questions about the ingredients can be directed to kumaranv@mcmaster.ca . All proceeds from the sales of these candles will go directly to support the research in the NICU and further advancements for the unit as a whole. Candles can be purchased through this form, and payment can be provided through cash upon pickup or etransfer to nicumsh2021@gmail.com.

Candles can be picked up from McMaster University, Markham Stouffville Hospital or at the Richmond Hill Centre, shipping is available for an additional cost.