SUBSCRIBE! Sign up for our daily newsletter and never miss a story!

CHAT News File Photo
By Chris Brown
Nov. 17

Saamis Tepee to mark World Prematurity Day

Nov 16, 2020 | 4:24 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The Saamis Tepee will be lit purple on Nov. 17 in honour of World Prematurity Day.

The Medicine Hat & District Health Foundation is bringing the symbol to the community to honour and support preemies, their families and their dedicated caregivers.

World Prematurity Day was created on Nov. 17, 2011 to raise awareness for the millions of children every year who are born prematurely.

According to the local health foundation, more than 30,000 babies are born prematurely in Canada each year, and about one in 10 babies born worldwide are born too soon.

“Premature babies may have more health problems than babies born later. These include issues with their brain, lungs, heart, eyes and other organs,” says the health foundation in a release. “Premature birth can lead to long-term challenges for some babies, including developmental delays. Some health issues related to premature birth can last a lifetime, while other health issues can show up as baby grows and later in childhood.”

WHAT'S ON
Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: April 2-5
Apr 02, 2026
What's On
Top five things to do at the Medicine Hat Public Library in April
Apr 01, 2026
WHAT'S ON
Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 27-29
Mar 27, 2026

World Prematurity Day is represented by the colour purple, which stands for sensitivity and exceptionality.

by Chris Brown

Our Community

WHAT'S ON
Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: April 2-5
Apr 02, 2026
What's On
Top five things to do at the Medicine Hat Public Library in April
Apr 01, 2026
WHAT'S ON
Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 27-29
Mar 27, 2026
What's On
Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 20-22
Mar 20, 2026
WHAT'S ON
Here's what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat: March 13-15
Mar 13, 2026