World Prematurity Day on 17 November highlights premature births and their consequences all over the world. "For many years, we have had a partnership with the Klinikum Leverkusen and we want to show our solidarity with the doctors, nurses and parents of the premature babies born at the clinic," said Meinolf Sprink, director of fans/community at Bayer 04.
Even though the chances of survival are good these days due to medical advances, many families continue to be confronted by the challenge of premature birth: Every year in Germany, over 60,000 children are born too early. That means every tenth child is born from the 37th week of pregnancy. These numbers ensure that children born prematurely are the largest patient group amongst children in Germany.
The idea of lighting up buildings across the world (Purple for Preemies) originally came from the American organisation March of Dimes and has grown increasingly popular. In addition to the BayArena in Germany, the castle in Heidelberg and the tower block at the Charité hospital in Berlin are also illuminated in purple.
The Klinikum Leverkusen is the main centre caring for premature births for the hospitals in the city and the surrounding Bergisches Land and with 1,600 births per year is amongst the most experienced maternity hospitals in the region. Last year, a total of 345 premature births were treated at the Klinikum Leverkusen.
Calling all Bayer 04 fans: The Werkself will play Pisa SC, newly promoted to Serie A, at the BayArena as part of the season opener. The clash with the club from Tuscany is on Tuesday, 5 August with the kick-off at 18:00 CET. Entrance to the stadium with a wide range of entertainment provided is possible from 15:00 CEST. Read on for information on ticket sales for the season opener.
Show moreBayer 04 Leverkusen have signed the 17-year-old forward Dustin Buck. The Germany youth international joins from the youth set-up at FC Augsburg. The technically gifted and fast attacker will strengthen the Werkself U19 squad.
Show moreSeveral Bayer 04 Legends, Bayer executives, club officials, current defender Arthur and, of course, dozens of enthusiastic children turned out on Saturday on the south side of Sao Paulo for the official opening of the Bayer 04 Football Academy, located at Club Bayer on the campus of Bayer Brazil.
Show moreA great night for 'Calle': Bayer 04 new signing Carlotta Wamser helped Germany to an opening win in the Women's Euro in Switzerland with an impressive performance. After coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 victory over Poland in Group C, the winger provided an assist and helped set up the second goal. The 21-year-old earned great praise from her coach and teammates in her first tournament match.
Show more