Julia Santucci

In March 2020, as the world shut down in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, our family faced an even greater challenge.  Only 24 weeks pregnant with our first child, I was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia and immediately hospitalized.  Five weeks later, our daughter Gabriella Ruth was born, weighing just over 1.5 pounds.  She died 13 days later, and our lives were shattered.

Our NICU stay was far too brief, but it was made easier by the resources provided by March of Dimes.  When we attended our first March for Babies in 2022, we found a community of others – thousands, in fact – who had suffered from pregnancy complications, preterm birth, and/or infant loss.  I felt so much love and support and felt grateful to know that I wasn't alone on this journey.

But I also felt angry.  The United States is the wealthiest country in the world, and yet far too many women, babies, and families suffer from complications or even death during childbirth.  With preterm birth and maternal death rates continuing to rise, I’m committed to raising funds so that every family gets the best possible start. But I need your help. 

Please visit my fundraising page to make a donation. Together we’ll be part of a movement to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.