Prematurity Awareness Month

November is prematurity awareness month. Every day 1,400 babies are born prematurely. These babies face days to months in the NICU, some will have life long complications as a result, and for a few; they will not be able to be saved. Despite research the rate of premature births is increasing. As a nation we score a D in premature birth rates. So how can you help? The March of Dimes is sending out a Petition for Preemies. Please take a moment to sign the petition and see what grade your state makes. Want to help some more? Right now MasterCard is DOUBLING your donation to the March of Dimes when you use you MasterCard (of course) click HERE to donate.

Babies should not have to start their lives out like this -hooked to machines and tubes. Parents should not have to see their babies from behind plastic isolet walls and wondering if their child would be the one to beat all the odds and survive. Toddlers should not have feet full of scars from the hundreds of heel sticks that were required during their NICU stay.

Elizabeth - Her first day. Eyes fused closed, dependent on machines for survival.

Elizabeth about three weeks old wearing Matt's wedding ring. She was VERY sick when this picture was taken, we were afraid she wouldn't be able to fight the infection.

Elizabeth last week

Calandar Girl

Time to get ready for 2009 and what better way than a fabulous calendar?

The very first St. Joseph Mercy NICU calendar Heroes of Hope is now available. This calendar is a fundraiser for the NICU where Elizabeth and the rest of the family was given amazing and loving care for four months. It is 12 months of beautifully photographed children who are NICU graduates. 100% of the proceeds will go to support NICU families as they navigate the rough and scary path of being a NICU parent. Elizabeth is one of the models and where else would our little sweetheart be but February? The calendars are $20 each plus shipping. Click HERE to order your copy today! If you want to save on shipping and will see me soon let me know and I can get one (or two) for you.

Happy Halloween!

Happy Haloween!

Angelina Ballerina

One little mouse ready

Off we go

Trick-or-Treat!

Hmmm . . .

Don't know what this is but it looks good!