Sarah Manuel-Bates

At a time of loss in my life, I was given hope in the form of a baby girl. I was 21 weeks pregnant when I was at work and realized something was not right. I was not in pain, I did not feel any pressure. I noticed that my pants were very lightly wet. I did not anticipate that when I called my doctor that I would be told to come in immediately. I expected to be told this was a normal finding and that everything would be fine. Instead I was told I was 4 centimeters dilated and would need to be admitted to the Labor and Delivery Unit. I was told to prepare for the worst, that most likely I would deliver within 48 hours and my daughter would not be "viable".Well, 48 hours turned into 2 weeks and fear turned into hope. The conversation changed. If we could make it 24 weeks, my daughter would be "viable" and have a chance to survive. Unfortunately, my body decided that 24 weeks was not an option. On March 30, 2010, I delivered my daughter at 23 weeks gestation and after 3 small breaths she was gone. It was one of the hardest experiences of my life. Fast forward 2 years later, during my next pregnancy I was prepared. My doctor was able to take preventative measures and I was able to have my son, full term. He is now 13 years old, healthy and thriving.  Premature birth affects about 380,000 babies here in the United States. For some there are good outcomes, however for others the outcomes are devastating. I am walking in March for Babies because every mother deserves the chance to have a healthy pregnancy and come home with their baby. Please make a secure donation to help me reach my goal. Together we can help the March of Dimes fight prematurity so more babies can get the strongest start possible.