In 2017, we began our journey to start a family. Fast forward five years and 24 weeks later, we found ourselves in the NICU fighting to keep that journey going. Penny surprised us all 16 weeks early. I suffered from preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome with severe features. Penny came into this world on March 15 at 12:42 pm, weighing only 300g or 10.6 oz (less than the weight of a can of pop). Mere hours beforehand, we had mentally said our goodbyes, but the highly skilled doctors at Northwestern's Prentice Hospital were able to intubate her despite her tiny size.
Our little fighter spent 34 amazing days with us. She jumped incredible hurdles, even prompting one of our doctors to say, "she is defying the text books." Our skilled and kind nurses and doctors at Northwestern's NICU guided us through every step, every hurdle with love and compassion. Without them, we never would have had those precious days with our little girl.
I am marching for Penny, and for all the doctors and nurses who care for these special babies and their families. Giving them hope in the most difficult time in their lives.
I am marching to fund research into preeclampsia and preterm labor. I am marching so that even babies as tiny as our Penny can have a chance at life.
I hope you will support our lucky Penny through a donation for this walk.
March of Dimes is dedicated to bringing people together to tackle America's maternal and infant health crisis—one person, one community, and one step at a time. More than a series of walks, March for Babies is an annual tradition that supports moms and babies every day, every step of the way.
March for Babies connects friends, families, and coworkers to improve the health of families nationwide. Together with March of Dimes, each step forward brings us closer to a healthy future for all.
Thank you for your support!
Thank you to our local sponsors
