Since 2000, Kohl's department stores have donated more than $2,500,000 to The Children's Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. This year was no different. Last week, Kohl's demonstrated their commitment to the hospital through the presentation of a check for $442,063, which was made possible through the Kohl's Cares for Kids philanthropic initiative.

In 2006, a partnership between Kohl's, The Children's Hospital, and The Kempe Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect formed and launched the Kohl's Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Campaign. The campaign has had tremendous success in raising awareness about the serious issue of Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Shaken Baby Syndrome is the diagnosis given to many serious and sometimes fatal injuries and permanent disabilities that can occur when an infant or young child is violently shaken. It has become the leading cause of death among child abuse cases in the United States.

According to Andrew Sirotnak, MD, Director of The Kempe Child Protection Team at The Children's Hospital, "Shaking a baby can cause permanent brain damage, blindness, hearing loss, seizure disorders, paralysis, and even death." The good news he added is that with the proper education, this is an issue that can be prevented.

Last week, the Kohl's Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Campaign unveiled their new educational video titled, "Crying Happens. What's Your Plan." Initially, the video will be shown in a pilot research project executed at The Children's Hospital and to new parents in birthing hospitals. The video reminds viewers that it is easy for caregivers to get frustrated by infant crying and in turn, provides simple strategies on what to do when this happens.

To learn more about Shaken Baby Syndrome and prevention efforts in Colorado, visit www.calmacryingbaby.org or visit www.thechildrenshospital.org.