Every year, half a million babies in the U.S. are born prematurely. Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death and many life long disabilities. The funds we raise in March for Babies support research that saves babies' lives.

My friends son Brendan is the baby in the picture above, taken when he was two days old. He was born six weeks early, and weighed only 2 lbs., 15 oz. He had to stay in the NICU for one month, separating him from his mommy and daddy, and robbing them of precious bonding time with their new son! The plastic wrap that covers his body keeps him warm, but allows the doctors and nurses to get to him quickly if he needs immediate assistance. The gauze is on his tiny foot because the IV had to be moved every 24 hours, and his skin was as thin as paper. As a baby he had to suffer through multiple surgeries. Thankfully, as he continues to get older, his small size no longer causes as many health related problems. Although he has had developmental delays since birth, Brendan is a very active and healthy child - with a laid back attitude and a genuine love for life. I recently celebrated his fourth birthday with him, and am happy to say that he is finally on "the charts" at about 28 lbs.!

Please help me support this incredible organization. Your monetary donation is tax deductible. If you would rather donate your time, I would LOVE to have you walk along with me (and Brendan's mom!).

Go team Bean!

Thank you,

Aimée

The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.