In 2006, a nephew was born into my family prematurely and with significant medical defects. After two weeks in the NICU, he passed away. My husband and I lost a nephew and heaven gained the littlest angel. We got to know Matthew during those two weeks, spending a lot of time with him every day at the hospital. He was just a baby, but what Matthew taught us about ourselves, about compassion and about the strength of the human spirit are lessons that have stayed with us. I like to think that my son has better people as parents because of Matthew.

Last year, many of you supported me during the March for Babies because I believe in the March of Dimes mission to save babies. I`ve joined the team that Matthew`s parents have created, named "Mighty Matt" and I`m hoping you will consider sponsoring me again. I know money is alway tight, so I completely understand if you are unable to donate at this time. However, if you are able to, I truly appreciate it. Even a $5 contribution will help.

Contributing to my march online is fast, easy and secure. You can donate directly from my personal webpage with a credit/debit card or PayPal. If you prefer, I can also accept cash or check. Just click the appropriate box on my webpage.

The money we raise helps save premature and sick babies. Premature birth is the #1 cause of newborn death and the biggest threat to babies′ health today, and through March for Babies, the March of Dimes is funding important research to find out why premature birth happens and what can be done to prevent it.

With your support, there′s hope.

Thank you for considering this worthy cause.

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