Julia was born at just 23 weeks and 6 days. After conceiving through IVF due to my endometriosis diagnosis, my water unexpectedly broke at 18 weeks. I was transferred from Inova Alexandria to Inova Fairfax, where I remained on the Maternal-Fetal Medicine unit for five weeks, hoping every day for more time.
On January 14th, I spent the day with what I thought was simple back pain—never realizing I was in labor. By the time I reached Labor and Delivery, Julia arrived within moments. She was born before the NICU team could even make it into the room. That day marked the beginning of our nearly six-month NICU journey.
Today, Julia is a thriving, spirited two-year-old who attends preschool. She is active, healthy, and still full of the strength and determination she showed from her very first breath.
We are deeply grateful for the March of Dimes—their NICU support team, groundbreaking research, and relentless advocacy that gives babies like Julia a fighting chance.
I hope you’ll consider making a meaningful donation to help ensure every baby gets the best possible start. Together, we can help build a more equitable future where every mom and baby has the opportunity to be healthy.
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!
