In 2016, at 27 weeks pregnant, our son, Cole, surprised us with his chaotic entry into this world at one pound, eleven ounces. As a mom, words can't explain the fear and the feeling of uncertainty when you're told that your child is safer outside of the womb than in when you're just 2/3 of the way into your pregnancy, especially at one pound! Once he arrived we had a two month NICU journey at Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis, MD, until our sweet baby boy was able to come home with us. Those long 57 days were filled with an abundance of emotions, some unexplainable.
We will be forever grateful to Anne Arundel Medical Center Labor & Delivery, Mother Baby, and NICU staff. They took care of use every step of the way. From the time we found out he needed to make an early entry into this crazy to the time they were sending us home they were there to provide support any way they could, with a smile on their face. There aren't words to describe what the NICU did for us as we navigated parenthood with a side of trauma. This year we are teaming up with the NICU to share Cole's story because without them, who knows how different his story would be.
During such a traumatic time in our life, we had an unbelievable amount of love and support, sometimes from people we didn't even know. It was so incredibly amazing and touched us in ways you can't imagine! This is why we walk. We walk for all the other babies and families who need our love and support, some of which who sadly aren't as lucky as we are. We walk for our son Cole, the miracle that he is! We walk to spare future parents the same frightful, traumatic journey we experienced. We walk with gratitude for the support we had when we needed it most.
Together, one step at a time, we can help the March of Dimes fight prematurity so more babies like Cole can get the strongest start possible. Please join us with a donation and/or walking for the cause. Babies everywhere need you.
FIGHT LIKE A PREEMIE!
Gratefully,
Chris, Taylor, Cole & Camryn Winkler 💜
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!
