Pomfret, MD — The Grimes family of Pomfret, Maryland understands first hand what it can mean if a baby is born too soon. Shauna and Mike were excited to become parents again. At 30 weeks, Shauna went into premature labor and was put on strict bedrest. Five days later, Shauna gave birth via emergency C-section.
Born 10 weeks early, due to Shauna’s diabetes, Kamryn was 5 pounds 10.5 ounces and 18.5 inches long but was diagnosed with periventricular leukomalacia, which is a brain injury found in infants, particularly premature infants. “Kami“ was in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for two months. At nine-months-old, she had her first seizure. Kami was diagnosed with epilepsy and a short time later was further diagnosed with spastic quad cerebral palsy, cortical visual impairment, torticollis and asthma. Kami is now three- years-old. Her smile is contagious! She is full of life and teaches everyone what life is really all about!
“So many babies are born too soon, too small or too sick and we want to do something about it! We are honored to serve as an ambassador family and invite everyone to come join us and walk so other families can be spared from the heartbreaking experience of having a baby born premature,” said Shaunna Grimes.
As the 2016 March of Dimes Suburban Maryland Ambassador Family, the Grimes will share their story with the public to help the March of Dimes raise awareness and the necessary funds to prevent birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.
Unfortunately, the Grimes family’s experience is too common. Premature birth is the number one cause of newborn death. Babies who survive an early birth often face the risk of serious, lifetime health challenges. The March of Dimes is working hard to help moms like Shauna have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies. The Foundation funds lifesaving research, education, community programs and advocacy to prevent premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality.
The March of Dimes premier fundraising walk March for Babies benefits all babies — those born healthy as well as those who need help to survive and thrive. March for Babies is held in 500 locations nationwide. Established in 1970, the event has raised more than $2 billion nationwide to benefit all babies.
