Rockland Family Raises $19,000 for Valley’s NICU in Honor of Son’s NICU Care

Hannah Hiep, her husband Robby, and their son Robby Hiep III attended The Valley Hospital’s Camp NICU celebration in May, an annual event benefiting Valley’s Level 3 Marron-Manginello Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The Hieps, Rockland County residents, were surrounded by NICU families, clinical staff, and volunteers who know what a special place Valley’s NICU is as well as they do.

At 27 weeks pregnant, Hannah was diagnosed with preeclampsia and HELLP (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes and Low Platelets) syndrome, dangerous conditions that can cause serious complications for both mother and baby. Baby Robby was born early on August 15, 2025, weighing only 1 lb., 11 oz.

Shortly after birth, Baby Robby began having trouble with his lungs and experienced multiple medical challenges in the weeks that followed – including a bout of pneumonia and multiple surgeries.

The Hieps spent the next three months in the NICU, standing by Robby’s side each day.  

Throughout their experience, they were supported by the NICU staff and the NICU Family Support Specialist, a dedicated team member who provides much-needed emotional support, guidance, and resources through what can be an unexpected, lengthy and challenging experience.

“You never want to need this experience for your child, but if you have to go through it, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere but Valley,” Hannah said. “They did not just take care of Robby – they took care of all of us.” 

The Hieps went home a few days after Thanksgiving, and Baby Robby has been doing great ever since, thriving as a happy 9-month-old. Grateful for the care they received, the Hieps were eager to give back and support other NICU families walking the same path.

This spring, the Hieps planned a private fundraiser at one of their favorite restaurants, Norcina in New City, and gathered their friends and family to support Valley’s NICU in honor of the care Baby Robby received and the compassion his family experienced throughout their journey. The fundraiser raised more than $19,000 to support the NICU’s Family Support Program.

“We didn’t expect this to be our path, but this experience was given to us for a reason,” Hannah said. “I have said since the day Robby was born that NICU babies are so resilient and incredible, and we were happy to give back to help others who find themselves in the NICU after us.”  

To learn more about how you can support Valley’s NICU or to plan a fundraiser of your own to support any area of Valley that is close to your heart, visit www.valleyhospitalfoundation.org /thirdparty.