A premature baby is one who is born too early, before 37 completed weeks
of pregnancy. Premature babies can have more health problems and may
need to stay in the hospital longer than babies born later. More than
half a million babies are born prematurely each year in the United
States. ~ March of Dimes
My premature babies' stories are far from heart-wrenching when I think of others who have and still are dealing with the short and long-term effects of premature births.
My oldest son was born at 30 weeks. My youngest son and daughter were kept put with progesterone shots, modified bed rest and lots of prayers.
In many countries, babies born at the same gestational period as my oldest son face many obstacles in their first days of life and, sadly, do not survive. According to the World Health Organization, preterm birth is the leading cause of newborn deaths (babies in the
first four weeks of life) and the second leading cause of death after
pneumonia in children under five years.
In honor of World Prematurity Day this Saturday, November 17th, Impatient Optimists is helping to bring attention to premature births and, especially, the impact it has in developing countries where access to the proper medical is often unavailable.
Please head over here to read my story and others in support of this wonderful cause!
Hi Diva, I appreciate your purpose! New Follower here.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Welcome :)
DeleteThis is so scary. We have had a few premies in my family (not me, but aunts and uncles). I am glad to know about this organization.
ReplyDeleteI never knew they had an organization for it. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing these information! I can just imagine how it must have felt to delivered preemie, but glad that your kids survived. Prayer also is a powerful tool!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great cause. I was very fortunate to carry both my babies post term, but have far too many friends with premature babies. <3 Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine how difficult it must be to have a preemie. It's wonderful that your children did ok and I'm glad that you are bringing awareness to this important day of recognition.
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