Sara and Nathen McEown

We march and support March of Dimes in the name of "Sadie the Strong" our 25 week micro-preemie, and her sister, Emerson, who was born early but healthy. We march for all families who have been impacted by premature birth and we march to raise awareness for maternal health for all mothers.  Now is more important than ever to raise money and support the health of all moms and babies.  There is still so much work to do Maternal death is on the rise in Houston and all over Texas, and our region received an “F” grade for maternal health and prematurity. There are many unknowns as to why some mothers give birth prematurely, or have other issues during and after pregnancy.  Sara is one of those cases - both of our children were born premature due to early labor and we still do not know why. 

Here is Sadie's story...

On January 6, 2015, our little girl entered this world far too soon.  Born at 25 weeks and 2 lbs, 2 oz., Sadie had a long road ahead of her with many unknowns.  Sadie was born with respiratory distress syndrome, two heart defects and retinopathy of prematurity in her eyes.  Needless to say she had constant ups and downs during her 3-month stay in the NICU. We were terrified but hopeful.  Sadie directly benefitted from the work of March of Dimes through treatments she received, including the surfactant she received in the first 24 hours of life which helped her lungs and enabled them to recover from RDS.  Surfactant was developed by funding from March of Dimes and saved our daughter's life.

Today Sadie is 10 years old, in 4th Grade, loves playing Lacrosse and Tae Kwon Do! She is a feisty and funny fighter and we are amazed every day at the young lady she is becoming. But we know every family's journey is different. We want to bring awareness and help for the great work of March of Dimes.  Please join us in raising money and marching with us as we fight for all moms and babies! 

Our love,

Sara and Nathen