My story starts in April 2008. I was 19 weeks pregnant, and thrilled about becoming a mom for the second time. Early on a Sunday, I started spotting. I thought this would pass. It didn't. I had no idea why.
I went to the emergency room and the next day my water broke. Throughout my week-long stay, I began to dilate and I knew my son, Ben, would be born regardless of whether he was ready or not. Ben had such a strong heartbeat, so I couldn’t help but have hope.
On Friday, May 2nd, at 11:23 p.m., my son, Ben, was born an angel. Born at 20 weeks, he was too young for his kidneys to function on their own. He was perfect to me – ten fingers, ten toes.
I didn’t get to hear him cry. I got to hold my little boy, though he was no longer alive, in my arms for as long as I wanted. It was the saddest I've ever felt in my life. My family went through the darkest time of their life.
I wonder what he would be doing right now. Would he look like me? What would his laugh sound like?
I became involved with the March of Dimes and formed our team For the Love of Ben in honor of Ben. Since I will never have a chance to truly buy Ben a birthday present, this is my gift to Ben – to give hope to families of babies born too soon or sick. I never want another family to experience the loss, sadness and fear I felt. It’s comforting to come together with others sharing the passion for supporting healthy moms and strong babies.
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!
