I've been looking for a way to give back through an organization or community opportunity related to prematurity. You may have noticed the March of Dimes button in my side bar. It's a small start but we are walking as a family this year! I'm looking forward to meeting other families who share the NICU experience and to learn more about how I can get involved here at the local level.
We had hoped to raise at least $100 to celebrate Merritt, and to support the March of Dimes in their mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.
Through some very generous donations we met and then surpassed our goal in the first 24 hours!
I cried with every donation that came in. It means that much to me.
There are 39 days until the walk and we have a new goal of $500. The funds raised will support research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies through health education and legislative initiatives, as well as bring comfort and education to families with a baby in newborn intensive care.
If you would like to donate any amount of money to our fundraising effort, please visit our March of Dimes web page or donate directly through the button in the side bar.
Every single dollar is so helpful and very much appreciated!
For those who followed our NICU journey through this blog or who lived it with us in person, thank you for supporting our family. We are grateful to each of you.
Edit: Whoa, look what you guys did!! We reached our second goal. You are awesome! Thank you so very much.
I walked last year with a friend whose preemie is part of Lillian's friendship circle. The mommy was recently hospitalized (last week) during her second pregnancy because they are expecting a preemie birth again (she has gestational diabetes, preeclampsia....) and she's not due till 5/29!!! Her first baby was just over 2lbs. My heart goes out to her and her husband and first child. Please don't take this as me diminishing Merritt's situation but rather emphasizing what is at stake for so many preemie's....life or death or many other health problems. I wish I could donate more!! I am SO SO glad that Merritt had you for a mama and that his body responded so vigorously to your care. Little Lion INDEED!
ReplyDeleteThank you Heidi!! Can't wait to see you soon. I know the mom you are talking about, I'll have to check in with you offline to see where she is staying. I would love to send her a note. Thank you for your friendship over the last 3 years.
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