Janelle Bainter

I walk for three reasons: my son, the families and NICU staff and my colleagues I work to support everyday.  Joshua was born at 28 weeks and was in the NICU for 60 days. He is now a sophomore in highschool and doing things everyday that he likely couldn't without the care and support of NICU staff, early intervention services and his own rugged determination.  He is a funny, silly, sweet force of nature who is handsome as all get out. He has defied so many odds and I have no doubt that his strong willed spirit will help him defy even more odds as he gets older. Money that you donate goes towards helping babies like Joshua defy their odds. In my work with March of Dimes over the past 16 plus years, I support those who provide comfort and support to families who are experiencing some of the worst moments of their lives.  They are terrified and overwhelmed. Money that you donate provides printed education materials, classes, craft activities, a much needed meal, a special moment on Mother's Day and Father's Day, and the chance to connect with graduate NICU parents who can understand what they are going through better than anyone else. I also have the extreme honor of working with amazing teams of NICU Family Support Program Coodinators, nurses, doctors, nurse practioners, respiratory therapists, social workers, occupational and physical therapists, secretaries, house keepers and so many others who provide excellent care to our tiniest, most fragile patients and their families.  Money that you donate supports research that will help this amazing team of people advance the level of care they can provide. Every donation counts, every step counts and your support is greatly appreciated.  Let's help all babies and families have a health start and the support they need.