Jena Beard

March of Dimes holds a deeply personal place in our hearts because our story is one of the many it exists to support.

Late in my pregnancy, we faced unexpected complications that led to the early delivery of our son at 32.5 weeks. What should have been a joyful, full term experience quickly turned into a season of uncertainty, fear, and resilience as we entered the world of the NICU. For 49 days, the NICU became our home, a place filled with both challenges and hope.

During that time, we witnessed firsthand the critical importance of specialized medical care, research, and support for premature babies and their families. The resources, education, and advocacy that organizations like March of Dimes provide are not just meaningful, they are life changing. They help fund the research that improves outcomes for babies like ours, support families navigating the emotional and physical toll of premature birth, and work to prevent the very complications that lead to early deliveries.

We are participating because this mission is our story. We know what it feels like to sit beside an incubator, to celebrate every small milestone, and to rely on the expertise and compassion of NICU teams. We also know how vital it is to have organizations championing healthier pregnancies and stronger starts for every baby.

By supporting March of Dimes, we are honoring our journey, giving back in gratitude, and helping ensure that more families experience hope, healing, and healthy beginnings.