COLUMBIA, SC, March 14, 2018 — In 2009, Kimberly and Frank were planning for the arrival of their twins in late August, but their babies arrived unexpectedly at just 26 weeks and 6 days into Kimberly’s pregnancy. Joshua weighed two pounds, five ounces and Jacob weighed 16.05 ounces. Their tiny sons would spend the first 103 and 133 days of their lives fighting to survive in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU).
“Serving as the ambassador family is a way for us bring awareness and to show our gratitude for March of Dimes-funded research and programs that help moms and babies,” says Kimberly. “We participate in March for Babies because we want to give all babies the chance to grow up strong and healthy.”
“Whether you join March for Babies here in the Midlands or in a March for Babies virtual walk, you’re raising critical funds to help tackle the biggest health threats to moms and babies, such as those the Shoulders family experienced,” says Ashley Edmunds, Development Specialist for the March of Dimes. “March for Babies is a day for everyone to join together to hope, remember and celebrate babies” says Edmunds.
March of Dimes gives four million babies born each year the best possible start. Nearly half a million of them, like Joshua and Jacob, are born prematurely or with birth defects. Premature birth and its complications are the largest contributors to infant death in the U.S. and pregnancy-related death has more than doubled over the past 25 years. From advocacy to education to research, we’re working to level the playing field so that all moms and babies are healthy.
This year, Midlands March for Babies will take place on April 21 at The State Fairgrounds. Gates open at 8:00 AM, with a brief program beginning at 8:30 and the 3-mile walk begins at 9:00 AM. Individuals, family- and corporate teams can register at marchforbabies.org. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more details, call Ashley Edmunds at (803)-403-8528.
The 2018 March for Babies is sponsored nationally by Kmart, Famous Footwear, Macy’s, HCA, Cigna, Pampers and regional sponsor Publix Super Markets, Inc. In our community, March for Babies is sponsored by BlueCross BlueCross of South Carolina, Inc.; Aflac; Michelin, Palmetto Health, SCE&G, AgFirst, B106.7 FM, Palmetto Parent, Columbia Business Monthly and WACH FOX 57.
About March of Dimes
March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation, we empower every mom and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information. Visit shareyourstory.org for comfort and support. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
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