My routine 20 week ultrasound was anything but routine. It was discovered that Charlotte was Severe IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restricted) and I had very low amniotic fluid. My baby was not just small ... she was NOT thriving and growing. I was told that at any point she was in distress, she would be delivered because she would be better off growing outside of me than in!
On July 21, 2016, Charlotte was born 12 weeks early, at 27 weeks 5 days gestation. She was a micro-preemie weighing 1 lb. 6 oz. and 11 3/4 inches long. She was in the NICU 108 days. Most of her challenges were considered normal for a baby born at 27 weeks, but none of it was normal to us. Her biggest challenge was with her breathing. When she came home, she continued to wear a breathing / heart rate monitor for another 14 weeks.
Today Charlotte is full of smiles and giggles, and loves playing with her big sister Noelle.
We are walking in the March for Babies because their research has healed generations. From helping to develop the polio vaccine in the 1950's to developing the lung surfactant treatment that has saved tens of thousands of premature babies with breathing problems, including our Charlotte.
We are walking to raise awareness of premature birth and the research that the March of Dimes does to save these babies. Please make a secure donation to help us reach our goal. Together we can help the March of Dimes fight prematurity so more babies can get the strongest start possible.
With preterm birth rates continuing to rise, the U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color.
At March for Babies™ you're lifting up communities, creating connections and taking action to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.
Together, we’re marching to raise funds and awareness to transform the health of all families!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
