I must admit that 4 years ago I didn't know what it was either. Now, thanks to Elliot, I am very much aware of prematurity and it's impact on the children of our nation. Over 500,000 children are born premature every year in the United States of the 500,000 approximately 150,000 of the don't make it. It is just a matter of time before everyone is impacted by a premature birth.
Today the March of Dimes released the National Report Card on Prematurity. This report card shows how each state is doing on the goal to reduce the risks of prematurity to 7.6% Overall America gets a "D." Check out how YOUR state is doing and then sign the Petition for Preemies. Help to raise the awareness for preemies and their families! This is a problem that we all can help with if we just take a few minutes to become aware.
There are many reasons babies are born too soon. If you are pregnant or are thinking about becoming pregnant or know someone who is pregnant learn the facts about prematurity. For example: Did you know that a low grade infections such as periodontal disease can trigger early labor? If you didn't know that then you owe it to yourself and your baby to become educated! Knowledge is Power! The more you know the better!
Elliot was born weighing 1 pound 12 ounces. He had single umbilical artery: one artery in the umbilical cord instead of two. Eventually that artery gave out completely. Because of great medical care and early intervention Elliot was saved. Babies like him are usually still born. Because Brooke saw her doctor and kept her regular appointments the problems were caught in time to save Elliot.
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