Ashley Plant

Just a few months into our first pregnancy, we learned our daughter had a life-threatening birth defect called a Gastroschisis. To monitor her health we had ultrasounds every month, stress tests every week to make sure she kept moving and met with NICU nurses where we learned how they would help us care for Ashley - little did we know at the time that they would become part of our family forever.

Ashley arrived 4 weeks premature with her intestines and stomach on the outside of her body. She was immediately taken to Lurie Children's Hospital where she had a breathing tube, feeding tube, underwent two surgeries and constant poking and prodding in just the first few days of her life. There were many challenges ahead for Ashley as she recovered, and she wasted no time showing us all just how fierce she is!

Shortly after she was born, we heard about the March of Dimes and the work they do to give all babies a healthy start. That year we created Team Ashley as a way to give back for all of the support we received during and after Ashley's birth. We walk to raise awareness about prematurity and birth defects and to take time each year to thank our family, friends, and healthcare workers who helped us during our most challenging time. Today, Ashley is a healthy, strong young lady and truly lives life to the fullest – always ready for the next adventure.

This will be our 23rd year walking with Team Ashley! We are grateful for the work the March of Dimes does for babies, mothers and their families and we are truly honored to be a part of supporting their mission.
 

Thank you for supporting Team Ashley!