March raises awareness, funds for preterm births

Formerly WalkAmerica, the March of Dimes March for Babies a fundraiser for supporting research and programs that help prevent or treat premature birth, birth defects and other threats to babies' health.

Registration for this year's March for Babies is at 5 p.m. Thursday at Kiwanis Park, with the march at 6.

Debbie Atchison, Southeast Missouri March of Dimes division director, said this year the silent auction has been expanded and a performance by magician Bill Coomer has been added.

"Teams from last year have returned and the number of teams has increased from 25 last year to 36 this year," she said. "I think the name change from WalkAmerica to March for Babies has made a difference. It brings those who we're walking for, babies, into the limelight."

Last year the walk raised close to $34,000. This year's goal is $45,000. Atchison thinks the goal will be met.

"We have awesome volunteers who are passionate," she said. "Having two dynamic hospitals with high quality NICUs makes a big difference too."

Some of the auction items include an area rug from Patrick's Furniture, a one year Southeast Missouri arts council membership, a round of golf for two at Dalhousie (with cart), CP McGinty Jewelers gift certificate, free portrait and sitting fee from Cheekwood Photography, guitar lessons from Shivelbines and two pictures of Cape Girardeau sights donated by Dr. David Crowe.

Funds raised at the march support research, educating women to have healthy pregnancies and recognize signs of preterm labor, assistance to health-care providers in identifying women at risk for premature birth, information and help for families of babies in NICUs and help for pregnant women with questions and concerns about pregnancy.

Another March of Dimes fundraiser, geared toward scrapbooking enthusiasts, will be from 6 to 11 p.m. May 16 at Saint Francis Medical Center's Community Room. "Crop for Babies" will give scrapbookers a table to work at with food and prizes for a $15 donation. Vendors are welcome, and $20 tables are available for them.

For more information, visit www.marchforbabies.org or call 651-6033.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133