As a young adult, I experienced the tragic loss of a friend and co-worker, Marissa. She and her significant other were overjoyed to be expecting their first child. But when Marissa began experiencing significant swelling, her concerns were dismissed by her doctor. Not long after, she received the devastating news that her baby had died—and tragically, Marissa passed away shortly after due to sepsis. Her story is a painful reminder that far too many moms and babies are at risk, and that we must do more.
In the United States, premature birth affects about 450,000 babies each year, and the preterm birth rate among African American women is 49% higher than that of all other women. I’m walking in the March for Babies to honor Marissa, raise awareness, and support the March of Dimes’ mission to improve maternal and infant health. Your donation can help fund life-saving research, push for better healthcare policies, and give every family a fighting chance. Please consider supporting this cause—because every mom and every baby matters.
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!