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 WalkAmerica support research that saves babies' lives.

As you all know Lanika was born at 24 weeks. She was a very strong baby. She was doing really good and growing. But suddenly she was affected by infection and doctors said that's the most common thing in NICU world. And that's when our real roller costar ride starts. Ups and down. You never think about what will happen tomorrow, you think about what will happen in next minute..... I was always scare to walk in the NICU.... thinking what I am going to see or hear.

One day I have been told she is going to die. I did not know what to say or do, I was speechless, in my mind I was asking god what kind of test it is..... I question why.... why...

Then that day came..... Time to say good bye, time to hold her for last time, time to touch her for last time....I wish there was noting called last time... My 5 year and 4 year old daughter got to see their little sister, but not live. My 5 year old asked me "mom, can I hold my sister, I won't be able to see her eye mom, she will never come home...etc... I could not answer her.... I did not know what to tell her.....

Lanika means the best..... and yes she is the best.......

Please help us, so no other parent goes through this.......

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