Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death and many lifelong disabilities. According to the March of Dimes Foundation, in Louisiana 212 of 1,275 babies born each week are preterm.  

The mission of the March of Dimes is “to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births and infant mortality.” In carrying out this mission, the March of Dimes conducts research, community outreach, education and provides advocacy. As a great deal of effort goes into making this foundation successful, it takes volunteers and community support to make their mission possible. The March of Dimes is inviting the public to help fight birth defects by participating in the March for Babies.

On Saturday, Oct. 8, a March of Dimes Walk will be hosted at the Highway 51 Park located at 2900 Highway 51 in LaPlace. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.  All proceeds from the walk will go toward continuation of research and support for a foundation that helps families have healthier babies.   

“This will be the 3rd annual March for Babies in St. John the Baptist Parish. We are asking residents to consider participating to show the March of Dimes that St. John Parish is a strong supporter of their organization and to help fight for our babies! Many of us have been affected by preterm birth and/or problematic pregnancies; therefore, we look forward to supporting the March of Dimes with residents in St. John Parish,” said Parish President Natalie Robottom.   

March of Dimes is also soliciting teams for the March for Babies. Create your team and make your own team T-shirts for the March for Babies. For endless information on this organization and to make a difference, please visit http://www.marchofdimes.com or contact Patricia Tracy at ptracy@marchofdimes.com .