Alpha Phi Alpha - Zeta Lambda

Did you know that the March of Dimes began as an organization to combat a baffling and fearsome disease, polio. The sickness caused an inflammation of the spinal cord that could leave its victims unable to move arms, legs, or even lungs. Although isolated outbreaks had been noted since the middle of the 19th century, it was not until 1916 that it became serious enough even to be given a name.

The first devastating outbreak of polio in the United States came in the summer of 1916. It began in New York City and spread to neighboring states, striking mainly children. The cause of the outbreak was completely unknown. It began with a few cases in June, and by August almost 9,000 people had come down with the ravaging illness.

The epidemic spread, finally covering 26 states, causing 6,000 deaths out of a total of some 27,000 cases. It had lasted approximately six months. Because most of the victims were less than five years old, the disease was called infantile paralysis and given the scientific name poliomyelitis, which means inflammation of the anterior spinal cord.

The organization has been highly effective in advocating for women’s and children’s health, for example working through its volunteers to pass legislation guaranteeing women a minimum hospital stay of 48 hours after giving birth to a baby. The roster of esteemed scientists the March of Dimes has supported through grants includes ten winners of the Nobel Prize.

Among these laureates are some of the most famous names in medicine, including Linus Pauling, who discovered the relationship between molecular structure and human diseases, and James Watson, the discoverer of the structure of DNA. The March of Dimes is organized into more than 90 local chapters, overseen by a national office.

We ask that you make a pledge today to continue the fight against premature births. 

Thank You, Zeta Lambda Chapter