💜 On July 9, 2023, our family’s life changed in a way we never expected. Our granddaughter, Maeve, was born at 33 weeks. It was one of the most frightening days we’ve ever faced, as we watched our daughter and son-in-law step into an uncertain and overwhelming chapter of parenthood.
Maeve’s life began with a 54-day stay in the Special Care Nursery. Those days were filled with new and unfamiliar challenges—learning medical terminology, navigating tests and X-rays, enduring blood transfusions, and living to the constant rhythm of monitored vital signs.
Through it all, Maeve’s parents met each moment with remarkable strength, grace, and compassion—supported every step of the way by the extraordinary staff in the Special Care Nursery. There were many uncertain days, but one thing was always clear: Maeve was deeply loved, and she was destined to touch so many lives.
Today, Maeve is a spirited little girl—running after animals, speaking in full sentences, and collecting treasured rocks, pinecones, and sticks. She fills our days with laughter and joy.
In July 2025, our grandson Rory was born. Like his sister Maeve, he needed extra care and spent ten days in the NICU at MGH due to respiratory challenges. Those days were filled with equal parts worry and wonder—a constant rhythm of monitors, gentle voices, and hope.
Every family in the NICU carries a unique story—some hopeful, some heartbroken, all waiting for a moment of relief. Time moves differently there. Each small milestone feels monumental, and every setback is a reminder of how fragile and miraculous life can be. Through exhaustion and fear, parents keep going—for their baby.
We are filled with gratitude for our grandchildren, alongside a deep awareness that not every family’s story ends with good news. Many face longer journeys, more difficult recoveries, or profound loss.
We walk to give back—to support families navigating these uncertain paths and the caregivers who make healing possible. Whether by raising awareness, supporting NICU programs, or simply listening to another parent’s story, even the smallest gestures can make a meaningful difference.
Love and community endure, even in the most fragile places.
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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.
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