For the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of volunteering with March of Dimes through the March for Babies campaign across Northern Virginia and the Metro DC region. Each year, I continue this work because the need remains urgent—and deeply personal for too many families.
Why this matters is that early and consistent prenatal care saves lives. It helps prevent premature birth, addresses chronic conditions, and ensures both mother and baby have the best possible start. Yet too many families—right here in our region—lack access to the care they need.
Access to care is a critical factor. Nearly 1 in 4 pregnant individuals do not receive prenatal care in the first trimester, reducing the chance to identify and manage life-threatening complications early.
Currently in the United States, more than 20,000 babies die before their first birthday each year, with an infant mortality rate of 5.6 deaths per 1,000 births. Babies born to Black mothers’ face significantly higher risks of premature birth and infant mortality.
At the same time, maternal mortality remains a crisis, with hundreds of mothers lost annually due to pregnancy-related complications. Black mothers are ~2.5–3x more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than the national average.
You can help by contributing to the March for Babies,
Your contribution to March for Babies helps:
Every dollar brings us closer to a future where no mother or baby is left behind.
Please consider making a donation today and assisting me in this effort.
https://www.marchforbabies.org/rqmiott
Thank you for your support and your commitment to healthier moms & babies.
With appreciation,
Rory Q Miott
Please donate
March of Dimes is dedicated to bringing people together to tackle America's maternal and infant health crisis—one person, one community, and one step at a time. More than a series of walks, March for Babies is an annual tradition that supports moms and babies every day, every step of the way.
March for Babies connects friends, families, and coworkers to improve the health of families nationwide. Together with March of Dimes, each step forward brings us closer to a healthy future for all.
Thank you for your support!