Two dads, different stories, same technique 

Earlier this year, UNICEF Australia Ambassador and Cricket Captain Pat Cummins and his wife Becky welcomed their second child, Edith, into the world. Now a proud father of two, Pat reflects on the unforgettable moment of meeting his newborn daughter for the first time. 

“Welcoming Edi, and before her Albie, into the world are moments I’ll carry with me forever. There’s nothing like holding your newborn baby against your chest for the first time – you feel their heartbeat, their warmth, their breath – and in that moment, everything else fades away,” says Pat. 

© Pat Cummins

These early skin-to-skin moments that Pat speaks of are not only precious – they can also be lifesaving for so many babies. Known as kangaroo care, this technique involves a mother, father or caregiver holding their newborn against their bare chest. It helps regulate the baby’s body temperature, reduce stress, and improve breathing. 

The importance of kangaroo care

Pat’s story reflects the joy and intimacy that kangaroo care can bring to families everywhere. In Vanuatu, Tony’s experience shows how this same simple act of love can also be a lifeline – keeping his premature twin daughters, Faith and Grace, warm and stable when medical equipment wasn’t available.  

Complications during delivery meant Tony’s wife, Benemwa, had to undergo an emergency caesarean and stay in bed for weeks. With limited access to medical equipment like incubators, Tony stepped in to provide kangaroo care - holding his newborns skin-to-skin against his chest to keep them warm and stable. 

“Fathers have to take responsibility too and do the work mothers do,” Tony said, as he helped feed and care for the twins while Benemwa recovered. 

Tony’s story is a powerful reminder that while kangaroo care can be a beautiful bonding experience it also serves as a critical intervention, especially in settings where access to lifesaving equipment is limited. In those moments, it can mean the difference between life and death. 

© UNICEF/UNI428949/Mobbs

Here in Australia, we are fortunate to have access to incubators and advanced medical support for premature babies. But in countries like Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, where healthcare clinics often lack access to incubators, kangaroo care becomes a vital alternative. 

Incubators play a crucial role in preventing hypothermia, infections, sepsis, and breathing difficulties. Yet many parents in these regions face additional challenges – from financial hardship to limited nutrition and antenatal care – that make childbirth even more difficult. 

That’s why UNICEF is working closely with local healthcare centres around the world, training staff and encouraging parents to use this lifesaving technique, so there are more stories like Tony’s.  

© UNICEF/UNI428926/Mobbs

Show your dad how much you care with a UNICEF Inspired Gift  

The greatest gift any father can give their child is the chance for a better future. This Father's Day, show your dad how much they mean to you by sending him an Inspired Gift. 

Here’s how it works:  

1. Purchase an ethical charity gift from our Inspired Gifts store to give a child the best chance to not only survive but thrive.
2. A personalised digital card will be sent to your dad telling him about the lifesaving impact he’s making. 
3. Your chosen inspired gift will be dispatched from a UNICEF warehouse to wherever they're most needed.  

There's no better way to say thanks for everything your dad did to give you the best start in life. Buy an Inspired Gift instantly to make your dad's day while helping to change the lives of children in need.