Building a
world without
necrotizing enterocolitis
We are the world’s leading non-profit dedicated to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).
Micah
Research, Education, Advocacy
The NEC Society is the world’s leading nonprofit dedicated to understanding and preventing necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We are led by patient-families, clinicians, and researchers who share our mission: to build a world without NEC through research, education, and advocacy so that babies and families never have to experience the devastation of NEC.
Join us this May for NEC Awareness Month and May 17 for NEC Awareness Day!
NEC is a leading cause of death for premature infants.
Turning pain into power through storytelling
Discover the powerful stories of families affected by necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a devastating and life-threatening disease. These stories highlight the urgent need for a world free from NEC. We are deeply grateful for the bravery of the families who have battled NEC and courageously shared their journeys with us. By opening their hearts to convey their grief, love, and hope, they help us confront the harsh reality of this disease. Their experiences inspire a shared vision for a future without NEC, honoring the strength and resilience of every child and family touched by this challenge.
NEC stands for necrotizing enterocolitis (nek-roh-tie-zing en-ter-oh-coh-lie-tis).
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating intestinal disease that primarily affects premature infants. NEC can also affect term babies, especially infants with a medical condition, like a congenital heart defect.
NEC causes severe inflammation of the intestine, leading to a bacterial infection causing necrosis (tissue death).
Looking for more resources? Learn more about NEC.
Committed to connecting families, clinicians, and scientists
We are here to provide resources to families and clinicians alike, to advance NEC research and understanding, and to ensure the patient-family voice is elevated in the NICU. We are here to build a world without NEC.
Understanding more about NEC will empower you to advocate for your baby and make well-informed decisions.
Not sure where to start? Reach out, we can help.
A Collective Voice for NEC Awareness
“Losing my son, Micah, to NEC has compelled our family to give and do all we can to prevent this devastating disease. Together, with your support, we can move mountains.”
Jennifer Canvasser, Founder & Executive Director
“We urgently need better strategies to prevent and treat NEC. At the NEC Society, patient-families work alongside researchers and clinicians, which inspires our broader community to collaborate. The NEC Society is pivotal to progress.”
Ravi Mangal Patel, MD, MSc
