In September 2014, our twins Tobias and Joella were born 4 months before their due date at 23 weeks, 6 days gestation. They weighed just over 1 pound and were immediately placed on life support.
Toby passed away from complications related to extreme prematurity when he was two days old. He was only here with us for a short time, but he will be in our hearts and a part of our family forever.
We then watched helplessly as Joella struggled to breathe on her own and endured heart surgery, countless painful procedures, and many terrifying moments of uncertainty. She spent 107 days in the Neonatal ICU where she fought with extraordinary strength and resilience with the help of a heroic team of nurses, respiratory therapists, neonatal nurse practitioners and neonatologists.
Joella continues to be followed by several medical specialist for conditions related to her extreme prematurity. But she has graduated from all developmental therapies and is a typical 4th grader in many ways.
We are walking to honor Toby and celebrate Joella. We are walking because we are grateful to March of Dimes for their commitment to leading research, supporting families, and raising awareness. And most importantly, we are walking because we want to do everything that we can to prevent another family from losing a baby that was born too soon.
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!
