Caitlin and Chris Kirklin

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Why the Kirklin Family Walks

This will be the 9th year of March for Babies for the Kirklin Family.  We are just as committed to the cause today as we were 9 years ago, and are so grateful to the many friends and family who have supported us all along this journey.

This year, the Kirklin Family will be doing a neighborhood walk in support of March for Babies and our superhero daughter, Madison, and in memory of our beloved angel, Grace.   Anyone is welcome to join us!

Our Story:

After their mother, Caitlin, spent a week in the hospital on bedrest to slow labor and delay delivery, Madison and Grace were born on December 7, 2016 at just 25 weeks and 1 day via emergency c-section.  Madison Louise was born first at 720 grams with Grace Virla delivered shortly after weighing only 715 grams (both about 1 lb 9 oz).  After 2 days in the NICU, our darling angel Grace sadly passed away after succumbing to all too common premature baby issues - a serious brain bleed and collapsed lungs.  Since babies aren't supposed to be born that early, her lungs and brain did not have time to fully develop to sustain life outside of the womb.  We continue to mourn our baby Grace every day, and are so fortunate that after 105 days in the hospital, Madison came home, thanks to the support of amazing medical technology and incredible nurses and doctors.

Premature babies are able to survive earlier birth thanks to research and discoveries made possible by organizations like the March of Dimes.  Still, with two babies dying every hour in the U.S., and two women dying every day as a result of complications from pregnancy tells us there is still so much more to be done. #ItsNotFine. Together, we can do something about it, and we are so grateful for your support! 


Fundraising activity

Recent donation and sponsor messages.
D
Don donated $103.00
16 hours ago
J
Jay donated $515.00
19 hours ago
"Chris, you have grown into a special young man. Love, Cathy and Jay"
I
Isabelle donated $103.00
2 days ago
J
Judith donated $103.00
3 days ago
D
Debra donated $51.50
3 days ago
"Every year when I see your posting I am reminded of how amazing Maddie is and how you and Caitlin still continue to raise money and awareness for this vital and life-changing cause. Maddie will have a super hero life and your Grace will always be part of your story and in your hearts. A former co-worker of Mike's just had their first, last week, a girl, Ellie May, born at 25 weeks, 1.1 lb. I told them they are not alone and to keep fighting along with Ellie, doctors and staff so they will one day bring their baby girl home too. "
A
Alina donated $51.50
3 days ago
"Love you guys !"
C
Caitlin donated $500.00
2 months ago

When it comes to giving families the best possible start, we all have the power to help.

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!


$1,427
Fundraising goal: $5,000
14 days
left until the event!
Saturday, April 25, 2026
7 Donors | 182 Visitors

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