'Giving for Greta': Inspired by personal tragedy, local family makes generous donation to NICU

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- From tragedy to compassion, a family is doing what they can to help other families in need this holiday season.

The Gintofts welcomed their daughter, Greta, into the world at Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Hospital in 2017.

She was born prematurely at 23 weeks and four days, and sadly, she died after spending her entire 17 days of life in the NICU.

Since then, the Gintofts have created "Giving for Greta," which makes annual Christmas donations to help families in need.

On Tuesday, Dec. 22, the family dropped off a big load of diapers, wipes and other baby supplies for the NICU families at the same hospital where Greta was treated.

"On more than one occasion, I've almost had them almost break down in tears that someone was so kind to donate such wonderful gifts to them," said Holly Richter of Ascension Columbia St. Mary's.

"This is definitely one of my favorite parts of Christmas now," said Amanda Gintoft, Greta's mom. "I look forward to it every year. It's a really lovely way to keep her memory a part of Christmastime. We just miss her so much."

The Gintofts say the NICU is really just a big family, and they're a part of that family.