In Touch with Experts™ Educational Webinar Series
A Conversation with Peter Swinnen
What Happens When an "Incubator Baby" Grows Up?
Hosted by:
Yamile C. Jackson, PhD, PE, PMP
Former NICU mom | Founder, Kangaroo Care Day® | Inventor of The Zaky®
About This Webinar
What happens when a preemie baby grows up?
Join us for a special conversation with Peter Swinnen, a former preemie from Belgium, healthcare professional in elderly care, and founder of Cokoen.
Born prematurely in 1990, Peter will share his journey from vulnerable newborn to advocate, offering a rare perspective on life beyond the NICU. Through personal reflections and lived experience, he will discuss resilience, identity, belonging, and the lifelong impact of being born too soon.
Whether you are a parent, former preemie, healthcare professional, researcher, educator, or advocate, this webinar offers a unique opportunity to hear the voice of a former NICU patient and explore what the future can look like after prematurity.
Featured Guest
Peter Swinnen
Founder of Cokoen | Former Preemie | Healthcare Professional
Peter Swinnen was born prematurely in Belgium in 1990 and describes the beginning of his life as being "an incubator baby." Today, he works in healthcare and leads Cokoen, an organization dedicated to recognition, connection, and support for individuals affected by prematurity. Through his personal and professional experiences, Peter advocates for greater awareness of the lifelong impact of being born too soon and the importance of community and support.
Discussion Topics
- Growing up after a premature birth
- Life beyond the NICU
- Identity, resilience, and belonging
- The long-term impact of prematurity
- Why former preemies' voices matter
- Advocacy and awareness through Cokoen
- Building communities of support and connection
Who Should Attend?
Parents, former preemies, healthcare professionals, therapists, researchers, educators, parent organizations, and anyone interested in the lifelong journey of prematurity.
About the In Touch with Experts™ Series
Hosted by Kangaroo Care Day®, this educational series brings together parents, clinicians, researchers, and advocates from around the world to share experiences, knowledge, and practical insights that improve the lives of babies and families.
Because every premature baby's story continues long after they leave the NICU.