March for Babies

Sunday our family walked in support of March of Dimes.  It is a walk that raises money for research for premature babies.  Erik and I have been walking 20 years now for this cause.  It means a lot to me since I was a preemie as well.  I was very lucky being almost 12 weeks premature and only weighing slightly over 1 pound.  I began walking when I started working for Farmer's Insurance who is one of their main sponsors.  I became a coordinator for the company and really like being involved.  I would not realize how much until I had an 8 week  premature little girl.  Emma weighed 4 lbs and 5 oz. but was a fighter and was only in the NICU for 2 weeks and came home on my 30th birthday.  She is a true miracle and a blessing from God.  I had many obstacles trying to conceive Ethan but when I did, I was high risk.  I had to take injections in my hips during my last trimester.  I was unsure about this drug (Progesterone) since it was new but March of Dimes fought for this research to help Mother's like me to make sure I could have a chance to carry this baby to term.  It was very expensive and without insurance, I probably would not be able to afford to get these injections.  Several years ago, the drug companies wanted to charge even more for them and make it even in more higher demand.  March of Dimes fought these pharmaceutical companies for women and won!  Research and technology have come a long way since I was a preemie but there is so much more to do.  I will never give up the fight to help these babies get a fighting a chance.  Just like I knew they did not for me and my babies.

It was a great day for a walk and Emma will always remember how lucky she is to be here and how much this charity means to her and our family.

Here are some pictures of our gorgeous day!