Laura Walczak

I've known many preemies in my life, beginning with my twin brother and sister whom were born a month early in 1990 with my brother spending time in the NICU. Then my niece was born at 27 weeks in 2006 when my sister-in-law suffered from pre-eclampsia. I remember that being a very scary time not understanding what was happening and we were not able to meet Alexis till came home from the hospital before her projected due date, under 5 lbs and on a monitor. Our then walked in the local March for Babies that spring. After having my own daughter at full term, we created a family team in Lehigh Valley, PA and walked that follwoing spring of 2010 in honor of my niece and all the premature babies. The next year our neighbors prematurely had their baby 5 weeks early, she spent some time in the NICU and came home healthy. The following year they also participated in the March for Babies. In 2011 I was expecting our son and started working with the local March of Dimes office as a part-time temp during walk season. I really enjoyed being able to work towards this mission and see what went into the planning of the multiple events our local office planned. This mission is something so incredible and touches every single person. The health of moms and babies is integral to every part of life. Thanks to the organization, we are all March of Dimes babies that have benefited from vaccines, prenatal and post-natal care.

With preterm birth and maternal death rates continuing to rise, I’m committed to raising funds so that every family gets the best possible start. But I need your help. Please visit my fundraising page to make a donation. Together we’ll be part of a movement to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.