Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death and many life long disabilities. It has reached epidemic proportions in the United States, endangering the lives of more than a million babies every year. And it is growing at an alarming rate. As a mother of 3 angels, I know first-hand the emotional and economic impact associated with prematurity. I can only dream of a future with healthy babies and children.
As a genetic counselor, I was already dedicated to the mission of the March of Dimes and as a grieving parent, I wanted to do something MORE with purpose and meaning. So in 2006, I registered to participate in WalkAmerica, March of Dimes’ largest fundraising event under the walking name: Team Aly-Kate, in loving memory of my girls, Alyssa and Kaitlyn. I am blessed to have had my good friend Joy walk with me at Griffith Park in Los Angeles, CA for my first experience and together we walked 5.5 miles in an hour and 45 minutes.
Last year, my husband Paul, cousin Rosanne and friends Jeff and Maricel joined Team Aly-Kate. And together we proudly walked at Fashion Island in Newport Beach, CA. We liked it so much at this location that I decided that I would sign up for all future walks at this same site. This year, WalkAmerica has been appropriately renamed March for Babies. The new name makes a clear connection to what the March of Dimes is all about.
Team Aly-Kate 2008 included myself, Joy, Paul, Rosanne, Jeff and Maricel as well as first-time walkers: Jeni, Rochelle and Margy. We all survived the record-breaking heat of 95 degrees on April 27, 2008. Even my little niece Mikayla (7mo), with the help of her mommy of course, “walked” for Team Aly-Kate in Jacksonville, FL. The outpouring of support for Team Aly-kate is heartwarming and deeply appreciated!
I will continue to be dedicated to help raise funds and awareness about the problem of premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality. I sincerely appreciate the generous support from all my sponsors. Bless them all for their compassion and generosity! I look forward to others joining me at Fashion Island, Newport Beach, CA next year!
