Cara Dumaplin has spent her career caring for babies and the people who love them. A former neonatal nurse and now a pediatric sleep consultant and founder of Taking Cara Babies, she helps families build healthy sleep foundations so they can thrive. In September 2025, her team sponsored a lunch for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) staff at Phoenix Children’s and hosted a family celebration with gift bags for parents, with gifts including a swaddle and complimentary access to Cara’s newborn sleep class. For Cara, the gesture was deeply personal.
1
What inspired you to donate to Phoenix Children’s?
I began my career in the NICU. It’s where I learned how to care for babies and their parents. I saw families show strength in incredibly overwhelming moments, and I witnessed nurses give everything to support them. Providing meals and gifts felt like a meaningful way to honor both the families and amazing staff who walk beside them.
2
What message do you hope parents get from your gift?
I want them to know they’re not alone. I also hope every parent remembers they are the exact right parent for their baby. More than anything, I hope they feel encouraged and reminded that hope is always present.
3
Giving back seems core to your work. Why?
From the beginning, Taking Cara Babies has been about more than sleep. It’s always been about caring for families. I want to keep leading with generosity and reminding parents they are seen, supported and never walking this journey alone.
4
How did your NICU background shape your approach to supporting families today?
I learned early in my career that when parents have education, practical tools and compassion, everything changes. Every class and every product we create comes from that same belief. Support should help parents feel confident, capable and empowered.
5
What is your connection to Phoenix Children’s?
In 2016, our son was diagnosed with a rare condition. We found ourselves at Phoenix Children’s, scared and overwhelmed. The care we received was extraordinary. It was not only the medical expertise but also the emotional support. They cared for our son as a whole person and helped him feel like a kid, even in the toughest moments. They cared for my husband and me as well. That experience changed our family.
