We’re honored to serve as this year’s March for Babies Ambassador Family.
Our family’s journey has shown us just how important it is to support moms and babies — and that’s why we’re walking on April 18th at The Navy Yard in Philadelphia.
"In April 2018, at 32 weeks and 2 days pregnant with our first daughter, Danalia, I went to a routine prenatal check-up that led to my immediate transfer to Triage for elevated blood pressure. It rose to a dangerously high 230/133, and I was diagnosed with Severe Preeclampsia and admitted to the hospital under close observation on the high risk ward. I had no major symptoms, except for swelling in my legs, which I had mistaken for normal pregnancy changes.
Despite medications and efforts to stabilize my blood pressure, three days later, I had to be induced and ultimately delivered Danalia via emergency c-section at 32 weeks and 5 days, weighing just 3lbs, 6oz. She spent 23 days in the NICU and overcame minor setbacks, which led to her being discharged on Mother's Day, thriving by the grace of God.
Seven weeks later at my postpartum check-up, my blood pressure was still volatile, and I was diagnosed with chronic hypertension, which I'm still being treated for today.
Three years later, my pregnancy with our second daughter Destini was high-risk from the start, with close monitoring and low dose baby aspirin in addition to my regular hypertension medication. I carried to 38 weeks and 1 day, and though another emergency c-section was necessary due to high potential for uterine rupture, Destini arrived safely."
Our family's journey is only a testament that the fundraising, awareness, advocacy, research and awesome work that the March of Dimes is doing is so very critical and does make a difference in increasing the statistics towards achieving the goal of healthy moms and babies.
With preterm birth and maternal death rates continuing to rise, we’re committed to raising funds so that every family gets the best possible start. And you can help us.
Please visit our fundraising page to make a donation. Together we’ll be part of a movement to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is 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!
