Annette Rapinesi

Thank you for visiting my page!

Please take a moment to look at the pictures above—so many friendships, memories, and shared moments over the years, all in support of an incredible cause: the March of Dimes.

My journey with the March of Dimes began in 1991. My firm, Reed Smith Shaw & McClay, had a walk team that year, and my sister Gerri was pregnant with my nephew, Marc. I decided to join the walk to support her and the March of Dimes mission. Marc was born in August 8, 1991 (see the profile picture attached), a healthy 10 pounds 10 ounces—“a sumo wrestler,” said one doctor, “a football player,” joked one of the nurses. Looking at the tiny babies in the hospital and seeing my nephew so strong and healthy, I realized how important the March of Dimes’ work is. I’ve been walking ever since—35 wonderful years and counting!

A few weeks ago, my heart broke as my sister Gerri passed away suddenly. Her loss is felt deeply by all of us, especially Marc, who is now 35. Gerri always supported my walks, and this year, I will be walking in her honor. In her obituary, my nephew asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the March of Dimes—a cause so close to our family’s heart.

This year marks my 35th year as Captain of the Reed Smith Philadelphia office team, and together, we’ve raised over $220,000 to help give babies a healthy start in life. How amazing is that?

I am walking again on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Navy Yard, and my personal goal this year is $7,000. Every dollar raised helps fund critical research, programs, and support for babies born prematurely or with health challenges. Your support truly makes a difference in giving all babies a healthy start.

Thank you so much for sponsoring me in the past—and if you haven’t yet, please consider helping this year. Walking in memory of Gerri and for all the babies who need us is deeply meaningful, and your support makes it possible.

With gratitude,
Annette