Southern Maryland joined together by the hundreds to raise more than $69,000 for March for Babies, formerly known as WalkAmerica, to benefit all babies—those born healthy as well as those who need help to survive and thrive.

“I am proud that southern Maryland residents joined together to support the health of all babies,” said Carey Hubbell, 2008 March for Babies Chair. “The efforts made and money raised by our volunteers this year will help the March of Dimes achieve its goal of ensuring that every baby has a healthy start in life that much sooner.”

Premature birth touches half a million babies and their families every year.  Babies born too soon are more likely to die or have disabilities.   More than 120,000 babies are born with serious birth defects that can mean a lifetime of disability. Babies born healthy need champions, too, to ensure they have access to newborn screening and preventive health care. The March of Dimes is there for all babies.

On Solomon’s Island, March for Babies was an exciting event.  Over 300 people attended the event with special guests including the Cusic family, the Southern Maryland ambassador family; DJ Greg with Music for All Occasions; Lindsey Stanisewski, Miss Southern Maryland; and HD Photography.

In 2008, national March for Babies sponsors are CIGNA, Continental Airlines, Famous Footwear, Farmers, FedEx, Grain Foods Foundation, Liberty Tax Services, nesting.com and Kmart.  Additional national sponsorship is provided by Discovery Health, Mead Johnson Nutritionals, Outdoor Services and Ther-Rx.

“On Solomon’s Island we are proud also to be sponsored by Constellation Energy, Northrop Grumman, Maryland Bank & Trust, Calvert Memorial Hospital, Place Arena, and Southern Maryland Newspapers,” Hubbell said.

About March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health.  With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.