November - Prematurity Awareness Month

Prematurity Awareness Month

 

543,000 babies (1 in 8) are born prematurely each year.

Premature birth is the number 1 killer of newborns.

Premature babies cost ten times more than healthy babies.

Every year, more than half a million babies are born prematurely in the United States.

Premature birth is the leading cause of newborn death worldwide. Even babies born just a few weeks too soon can face serious health challenges and are at risk of lifelong disabilities. Premature birth costs society more than 26 billion a year.

The March of Dimes works different channels of influence to reduce premature birth rates. One way is to raise public awareness of the serious issue and to invest in education of moms-to-be and health care providers. To create awareness, March of Dimes has designated November as Prematurity Awareness Month.

Featured in this post is my sweet daughter, Addison.  Addison and her twin brother Riley were born at 24 weeks and 6 days, weighing much less than two pounds each. Addison was strong for such a tiny, critically ill baby; however, Riley was simply too small and far too sick to survive – he passed away after four short hours.  Addison just turned three years old and is a bright, bubbly little girl with a passion for life and learning.   

Deedles Photography is available for portraiture sessions for your special needs child!  Whether you are looking to capture your child's birthday memories or looking to celebrate their life - contact Deedles Photography today! Rates can be found under the Portraiture post or by contacting deedlesphotography@gmail.com.