We all get to wear numerous hats as we go through our lives. When our baby arrived unexpectedly early, it was a while before there was a hat that would fit her just right.

Today in the U.S., 1 in every 8 babies will be born prematurely. Some of them won't survive, and others will have health problems that could last a lifetime. The funds we raise in the March for Babies support research that saves babies' lives.

Augusta, our own daughter, came 10 weeks early and was 2 pounds, 6 ounces when she was born May 31, 2002. She directly benefited from the important research that the March of Dimes does on behalf of all premature and low birth-weight babies. She spent 8 weeks in the only neonatal intensive care unit in our region at St. Vincent's in Billings, Montana. Since that time, Augusta has had wonderful medical care, has overcome an atrial-septal heart defect, and has met all her developmental milestones. The photo above was taken when Augusta was at St. Vincent's N-ICU, practicing her breathing. Today, Augusta practices her violin and is finishing third grade while she awaits the celebration of her tenth birthday. This year's participation in the March For Babies is a wonderful family treat for our growing-up girl. In the hopes that there will be more success stories like Augusta's, please send your donation for the 2012 March For Babies. It's easy, safe and secure to make your online donation. You can also join us at Plaza Diane in downtown Powell for the March on Saturday afternoon, May 19, for the event. (Pssst! Can you keep a secret? There will be a BOUNCE HOUSE!) Join us in spirit with the help of your donation to the March of Dimes. Wear your favorite hat to join in the celebration! Thanks for your friendship and continued support.

Please take a moment to donate what you can to give early babies like Augusta the best chance they can for a healthy life.

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