News Summary
The March of Dimes Greater Pee Dee walk held at Brooks McCall Park successfully raised over $30,000 for neonatal research and advocacy. The event celebrated families connected to the NICU and highlighted the ongoing challenges of premature births. Participants, including the Masons family, shared their NICU experiences, emphasizing the need for community support. With over 600 babies admitted to McLeod Hospital’s NICU each year, the funds will aid ongoing efforts to improve maternal and infant health in South Carolina. A future walk is planned for May 17 to continue this important advocacy.
Florence, S.C. – The March of Dimes Greater Pee Dee walk took place on Saturday morning at Brooks McCall Park, successfully raising over $30,000 for research and advocacy while honoring families connected to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This significant event brought together numerous families who have faced the challenges associated with premature births, reinforcing the need for ongoing support and community awareness.
The event has been aptly described by participants as a “graduation day,” recognizing the triumphs of babies who have survived their NICU journeys while also paying tribute to those who did not. Among the families in attendance was the Masons family, who helped highlight the poignant moments shared with their son, Kyrie, who spent 45 days in the NICU after being born prematurely. The Masons completed five laps during the walk in celebration of Kyrie’s journey, a heartwarming tribute to both their child and the cause.
Every year, McLeod Hospital admits over 600 babies to its NICU, illustrating the pressing need for resources and community support for affected families. The March of Dimes dedicates itself to providing crucial resources, comfort, and advocacy for these families. The event was supported by hospital staff, including Brooklyn Yarborough, a nurse from McLeod’s NICU, who noted the close-knit community formed between families and the medical personnel working to provide care.
Tameca Wilson, South Carolina’s maternal infant health director, emphasized that the event helps to bring awareness to the issue of preterm births within the state, where the current preterm birth rate is recorded at 11.6%. This statistic has resulted in an F grade from the March of Dimes, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness and support in the fight against preterm births.
The funds raised during the March for Babies event will be allocated towards necessary research, advocacy initiatives, and the development of resources designed to aid families as they navigate the complexities of NICU experiences. With more than $30,000 now secured, there will be enhanced opportunities to improve maternal and infant health outcomes across the state.
The Masons family, motivated by their own NICU experiences, is now actively advocating for policies that support maternal and infant health. They encourage broader community engagement in future fundraising efforts, recognizing the impact that such involvement can have on families coping with the challenges of premature births.
Looking ahead, an upcoming March for Babies event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 17, at Brooks McCall Park. This event will again provide an opportunity for the community to unite for a collective cause, with ABC 15’s Ed Piotrowski serving as the emcee, adding a familiar face to the occasion.
As communities across South Carolina rally for the health and support of premature infants, events like the March for Babies serve as crucial reminders of the ongoing journey many families endure. With continued support through fundraising and advocacy, there is hope for brighter futures for NICU families facing similar struggles.
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Additional Resources
- WPDE: March for Babies in Florence
- WMBF: James March of Dimes Commitment
- ABC News 4: Preterm Birth and NICU
- WMBF: March of Dimes Annual Walk
- Wikipedia: Premature Birth
