Dot Parker-McCray

2022 March For Babies Ambassador Family - The McCray Family 

“Team Kylah”

We join March for Babies in honor and remembrance of our beautiful daughter Kylah Amari. Early in our pregnancy, we learned that Kylah had hydrops (fluid on her abdomen) and a severely malformed heart. Doctors did not expect her to survive to term, but we were hopeful and made a care plan (including a series of heart surgeries) should the pregnancy progress to a certain stage.  It was during these difficult conversations that we were supported by the March of Dimes in regard to post-delivery care or potential bereavement services. We had many ups and downs in the weeks following her diagnosis.  

During a routine doctor appointment we learned that Kylah had passed away in utero. On April 22nd, 2007, I delivered our beautiful daughter, who looked just like her brother and father. Having to leave the hospital without our baby girl was difficult. The grieving process is not a one size fits all situation, but as a family, we have found purpose in our pain - through the March of Dimes.

Today we participate in March for Babies as a family, which includes Kylah's big brother, Kameron, and her little sister and brother, Korinne and Klayton - our rainbow babies. Because of Kylah's condition, there were tons of tests and appointments for each baby. Both were full term pregnancies and are healthy teens now. 

Our experience has inspired us to join this incredible movement.  We march in March for Babies to support women throughout their pregnancies, to ensure babies have the best possible start, and to provide comfort and support to families when they are in need.

Will you join us in the fight? Your support is needed now more than ever!