March of Dimes March for Babies is scheduled for April 4 at the River Market Pavilions. This fundraising event supports March of Dimes in their research, advocacy and education as they champion every family’s right to a great start. 

The Green Family’s NICU Roller Coaster 

Families like the Greens. As the Arkansas March for Babies 2020 Mission Family, mom Lisa shares the story of her daughter Sophie’s unexpected premature birth, NICU journey and eventual homecoming. 

A thriving three year old today, Sophie was in the NICU and CVICU for 71 days. Lisa describes the roller coaster ride of NICU parenthood. “I was in love and scared to death at the same time. She was basically bones and skin. You could see the outline of her entire skeleton. This was not what I imagined it would be like when I saw my daughter for the first time.” 

No parent does. 

Why March 

Along with their dedicated medical staff, the Green’s March of Dimes (MOD) rep was there every step of the way. “We loved our MOD rep at UAMS. Kristen Powell helped us with education, feeling so comfortable and celebrating holidays while our sweet girl was in the NICU. She helped provide that missing piece and bridge to helping us understand what was happening.”

MOD also strives to offer better education for moms-to-be, equipping them to recognize signs of prenatal issues faster. What started with an awful headache and progressively severe symptoms, ended with Sophie’s birth 12 weeks early. Lisa had life-threatening preeclampsia. 

The Greens are not alone. About half a million babies are born premature every year in our country. And in Arkansas, the percentage is staggeringly high. In 2018, 1 in 9 babies (11.6% of live births) was born preterm in Arkansas—only three states have a higher percentage. That’s why March of Dimes and this crucial annual fundraiser is important to all Little Rock families. 

Let’s March for Babies together! 

Event Details

APRIL 4, Registration starts at 8 A.M. 

All ages

Cost: Donations and fundraising encouraged, create a team today!