MaLeisha Medlin-Smoot

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, my family and I will participate in a walk with the March of Dimes to raise awareness about the challenges of premature birth. We walk in memory of my son, Malcolm, who was born at just five months, weighing only 1 lb. 1 oz. I remember that day as if it were yesterday.

During my first pregnancy, I chose to work with a midwife, believing it would offer me personalized care. However, my journey took a heartbreaking turn when I was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix and had to undergo emergency surgery to save Malcolm. My midwife immediately informed me that I would need to be on complete bedrest for the remainder of my pregnancy, and, like any mother, I accepted this, wanting nothing more than to keep my son safe.

Unfortunately, the doctor insisted that I did not need to be on bedrest and advised me to return to my normal activities. When I asked my midwife what she would advise her own daughter, she agreed with the doctor. Looking back, I realize that midwives in North Carolina are required to be supervised by physicians, which limited her ability to advocate for my needs. Tragically, I lost my son just two days later.

This experience taught me invaluable lessons about trusting my instincts, advocating for my health, and understanding the challenges many families face due to premature birth.

As we walk to raise awareness for this vital cause, your support means the world to us. If you’d like to contribute, while there’s no obligation, any donations would be greatly appreciated. Together, we can honor Malcolm’s memory and make a positive impact for others facing similar challenges.

Thank you for your love and support! 💜

#MarchOfDimes #PrematureBirthAwareness #InMemoryOfMalcolm #WalkForAWay #TogetherWeCan