Prematurity Awareness Day

Today is Prematurity Awareness Day and as a preemie parent I am very aware of the bittersweet experience of bringing a child into the world too soon. One out of eight babies is born too soon and Ava just happened to be that one. Sadly, those statistics are rising each year with more and more babies not getting their full 40 weeks.

During the 80s & 90s the March of Dimes donated $12.5 million to researchers studying Surfactant Therapy. Research by T. Allen Merrit, MD and funded by the MOD found the "effectiveness of surfactant therapy for premature babies with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS)." The FDA later approved lung surfactant therapy which reduced infant deaths from RDS by two-thirds.

Ava was one of those babies saved with lung surfactant therapy and this is only one of the many reasons why I support the March of Dimes and why I continue to spread the word about preterm birth. So many families are affected in so many ways when their child is delivered too soon. Some babies undergo multiple surgeries to save their lives and some of those tiny angels never survive.

With Thanksgiving around the corner I am taking a moment to show my thanks to the cause that gave me a healthy baby. I am forever indebted to the millions of people who support this cause and the wonderful staff of the RWJ-Hamilton NICU who nursed my daughter back into good health! I am also so thankful for the enormous support I recieved from my family and friends through what was a really emotional and challenging time in my life. Today my little Ava Marie is healthy and that is what I am thankful for!

We have come so far in the fight against prematurity but we still have a long road ahead. Here are ways that you can help:

1. Donate: During the entire month of November, MasterCard is matching your donation to ensure that all babies are born healthy!

2. Share: Tell your story with the "Every Baby Has a Story" campaign. Or you can read my story.

3. Walk: Create a team and kick off your fundraising for WalkAmerica 2008 or support Team Ava Marie as we kick off our 08' fundraising!

4. Shop: The MOD has numerous online merchants that donate a portion of your purchase to the cause that saves babies. You can also donate your old cell phones in support of the MOD. Or even buy your Christmas Cards to spread awareness and show support!

5. Learn More: Visit the March of Dimes and educate yourself on the signs of preterm labor and what more you can do to help this cause.