NICU babies brew up smiles during their first pumpkin spice season

Patient Stories |

08/25/2026

North NICU Babyistas Group

As fall approaches, team members in the Riley Children’s Health at IU Health North Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) helped the hospital’s tiniest patients celebrate their first pumpkin spice season.

The team dressed babies in handmade barista, or “babyista,” aprons and paired them with miniature coffee cup props, all created by NICU nurses.

nurse dressing baby as barista

“Having a baby is one of life’s greatest moments, and no one ever expects their journey to include a NICU stay,” said Ashley Brunic, manager of clinical operations for the NICU at IU Health North. “When families are here, we want them to feel connected, supported and able to find joy in the unexpected. Our team cares for some very sick babies, and these special moments are meaningful for them, too. They provide an opportunity to bring a little extra happiness to families while also lifting the spirits of our team.”

To help parents and loved ones join in the seasonal fun, the NICU team also set up a coffee bar where families could enjoy fall-themed refreshments while spending time with their little ones.

baby in apron
Lucy Geurrero de Mendoza
baby in apron
Stetson Hendrix
baby in apron
Sophie Villanueva
baby in apron
Theodore Widrig