Jennifer Mazza

During our twin pregnancy, we learned it was unlikely we would make it full term as our daughter, ‘Baby A’, was growth restricted and required close monitoring. In March 2022, we were admitted to the hospital and just 2 days after being discharged we were sent back to the hospital for a c-section, roughly 7 weeks early. 

Although we knew there was a high likelihood of this from the beginning, there was nothing that could have prepared us for the emotional and physical journey that we were about to be on, especially as first time parents.

Immediately after delivery, the twins were rushed to the NICU, where they were on CPAP, slept in incubators, and were hooked up to a number of monitors.  While we were grateful that they were okay and for the care they were receiving, there was a sense of grief and heartbreak in not being able to visit or hold them right away. 

Over the next few weeks, the doctors and nurses guided us through the high and lows of our NICU journey. Simply put, they became family. They saw us through many firsts, including teaching us how to bathe a premie, and put a diaper on around the cords. They walked us through many scares and celebrated every small victory beside us. They poured their hearts, knowledge, and experience into our babies making it possible for them to come home after 22 days and 30 days in the NICU. Thanks to the doctors, nurses, and organizations like the March of Dimes, our 3-year-old twins are healthy and thriving today. 

I joined the movement to create positive change for moms and babies everywhere, especially those most at risk. 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.