On the 17th November, World Prematurity Day is being held for the 4th time around the world. It is a World Health Organisation recognised day to raise awareness of prematurity.

As a member of the National Premmie Foundation, Australia's only representative and founding member of the World Prematurity Network, Tiny Sparks WA joins with a number of organisations across the world in promoting this day.

What's happening in Western Australia?

We would love for you to wear purple (easy if you're a Dockers supporter) and change your Facebook profile photo to our world prematurity day logo. Be purple!!

Our 'tiny bites for tiny sparks' campaign is being held for the first time. We would be delighted if you would like to support us by hosting a high tea. You can choose your own location, whether it be hosting at your home, workplace, local park or cafe. More details can be found here.

We are excited to see Perth Council House and Trafalgar Bridge in East Perth lit up purple on the 17th. Please send in your photos if you visit these locations.

What's happening across Australia?

The National Premmie Foundation is sending out posters to all hospitals across Australia to raise awareness, as well as gifts to all families with a baby born premature and still in NICU or SCN. Their campaign is to #LightItUpPurple, by asking families to light a candle at 7pm and wear a prematurity awareness pin.

What's happening across the world?

The world plans to light up iconic buildings purple!

The European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) is coordinating the European Campaign. It will again be promoting 'socks for life'. Its message is "1 baby in 10 is born premature worldwide. Tiny socks, big dreams".

March of Dimes (USA) is continuing its hugs heal message which spreads the word about the power of kangaroo care. It is also asking prem families to send a virtual hug to their friends through facebook to show they care about preterm birth.

March of Dimes have also worked with renowned photographer Anne Geddes to produce this beautiful image. It features little Alfred who was born 8 weeks premature, weighing just 2 pounds 6 ounces. This photograph was taken in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Royal North Shore hospital in Sydney, Australia where Alfred was born and stayed until he was well enough to be taken home.

Bliss (UK) is asking prem families around the UK to send a photo of their prem which will be made into a collage to share on 17th November.

The Canadian Premature Babies Foundation launches its 'Global Illumination Project'.

Other World Prematurity Network members include: