After over 2 weeks in intensive care at Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Special Care Nursery due to being born prematurely in 2006, Jacob is now a 18 year-old high school senior, enjoying his final semester at York, excited to start college in the Fall, and is a supportive older brother to Lucas, who is 13 years old (born without complication at 39 weeks thanks to many of the efforts and initiatives of the March of Dimes). While Jacob's story has been mostly positive to-date, babies born at his stage (33 weeks) and before often face significant, ongoing health issues and much longer durations in the NICU.
Please support our family, Kelly, Jacob, Lucas, and me, as we participate once again in the March for Babies. This year's event will be held on Sunday, May 18th.
Every year, half a million babies in the U.S. are born prematurely (about 1 out of about every 8 births). Like Jacob, many are born early unexpectedly after completely healthy, uneventful, and careful pregnancies up until that point. This issue certainly can affect anyone. Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death and many life long disabilities. As a Chicago Board member for the March of Dimes, I know the funds we raise in the March for Babies support research that saves babies' lives.
With preterm birth rates continuing to rise, the U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color.
At March for Babies™ you're lifting up communities, creating connections and taking action to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.
Together, we’re marching to raise funds and awareness to transform the health of all families!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Thank you to our local sponsors
