In appreciation for the care their premature twins received at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a local family organized a fundraiser to benefit the unit.

Josh and Bridget Barron, residents of Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, rounded up 200 community members to participate in the Walk for Preemies. The event raised $7,300, of which $5,000 will benefit the Hinsdale Hospital Foundation.

Twins Luke and Lauren weighed just 2 pounds 2 ounces when they were born Jan. 22 at 27 weeks gestation at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital. The little ones spent three months in the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, growing stronger every day with the help of a team of physicians, nurses and other caregivers that included neonatologists Dr. Anthony Bell, Dr. Evangelia Zikos, Dr. Milen Peev, and Dr. Vibhaben Thaker.

Luke has since grown to 14 pounds and Lauren 12 pounds. The family also includes big sister Ellie, age 2. They hope to make the walk – which took place June 21 in Beverly – an annual event. Teachers and staff from Consolidated High School District 230, where Josh Barron is associate principal of Stagg High School in Palos Hills, participated in the walk to show their support. Bridget is a stay-at-home mom.