French Pope, Jr

For more than 20 years, I have proudly supported and fundraised for the March of Dimes.
My journey began the day I met baby KJ at Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C. His mother introduced him to me while he lay in the NICU—just 2 pounds, resting in an incubator. When she encouraged me to gently touch him, I rubbed his tiny arm and he wrapped his whole hand around my finger. In that moment, my life changed. I knew I wanted to do everything in my power to help prevent other babies and families from experiencing the challenges of premature birth.

On July 6, 2023, my own family faced a heartbreak we never imagined.

My daughter and her husband lost their beautiful baby boy, Ezekiel, at 36 weeks and 5 days.
He was 6 lbs, 6 oz and 18 inches long—a perfect angel.
Ezekiel earned his wings that day. God had other plans.

As a long-time advocate and supporter of the March of Dimes mission for healthy moms and strong babies, I never anticipated that our family would walk this painful road ourselves.

Today, I continue this work in honor of Ezekiel—and in honor of every baby and mom who deserve a healthy beginning.

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.