Kasey Whilding

My "why" for joining this movement is my daughter Olivia.  My wife Alex gave birth to Olivia in 2019, and we were immediately told she had something called asymmetric crying facies (ACF), which is a congenital anomaly, and on the surface is not alarming.  Unfortunately, babies born with ACF are at greater risk for major heart defects.  This, along with her being jaundiced and having retracted breathing (the most immediate concern) put her into the NICU for about five days.  We of course were terrified, as any parents would be, but the care and compassion she received by the nurses and staff in the St. Vincent's NICU was incredible.  We recognized it then, and it has left its mark with us ever since.

Over five years later, Olivia is healthy and free of any heart defects that we know of.  She is a lively, intelligent and beautiful five year old (going on teenager!).  We are so grateful to the NICU nurses and staff at St. Vincent's, and ever since, have tried to take every opportunity we can to show that gratitude.

I was given the opportunity to serve on the March for Babies Executive Leadership Team and was so excited to jump in and do what I could.  March of Dimes does so much for babies, mothers and families, and has certainly touched our lives in more ways than one.  This is my small way of trying to give back and say thank you to the people and organization that ensured my daughter would come home to us healthy and happy.

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.