This is our family's 10th anniversary participating in March for Babies! We support March of Dimes in the name of Sadie the Strong - our 25 week micro-preemie; and her sister, Emerson, who was born early but healthy after early labor at 29 weeks and a 7 week hospital bedrest. We also participate for all families who have been impacted by premature birth and maternal mortality. Now more than ever there is work to be done and funds to raise to keep our research going. The United States is the most dangerous developed country in which to have a baby. Maternal death is on the rise. And there are so many unknowns as to why some mothers deliver prematurely… I am one of those cases. Both of our children were born premature due to early labor and we still do not know why.
Here is Sadie's story...
On January 6, 2015, our little girl entered this world far too soon. Born at 25 weeks and 2 lbs, 2 oz., Sadie entered the world silently without the ability to take a breath on her own. Sadie was born with respiratory distress syndrome, two heart defects, and retinopathy of prematurity in her eyes. Needless to say she had constant ups and downs during her 3-month stay in the NICU. We were terrified but hopeful. I learned a whole new language as I watched the doctors and nurses care for her around the clock and was amazed by the care she received. Sadie directly benefitted from the work of March of Dimes through treatments she received, including the surfactant she received in the first 24 hours of life which helped her lungs and enabled them to recover from RDS.
Today Sadie is 10 years old, in 4th Grade, plays lacrosse and basketball, loves to learn, and has received her "all clear" from her cardiologist. She is a feisty, funny little fighter and we are amazed every day!! But we know there is a long road ahead for many more impacted be prematurity. We want to bring awareness and help for the great work of March of Dimes. Please join us in raising money and marching with us as we fight for all moms and babies!
With preterm birth rates continuing to rise, the U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color.
At March for Babies™ you're lifting up communities, creating connections and taking action to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.
Together, we’re marching to raise funds and awareness to transform the health of all families!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Thank you to our local sponsors
