I have tried to do some good through all of this. Tried to find some purpose, something to occupy my days and help Maddie’s name live on. I want her to be associated with wonderful things, and not the terrible sadness of her passing.

It’s bittersweet. I sincerely wish no parent had to go through the hell that Mike and I have been thrust in to. But nothing brings our Maddie back.

Mike and I and our family have always championed the March of Dimes, so it seemed natural to turn our efforts toward them now. We are deeply impressed by the way all of you have turned toward them as well. Donating to them in Maddie’s name, starting walks in her honor, and bidding on items in the Beauty For Babies auction are just a few of the ways you’ve helped tie Maddie’s name to something positive.

Even though most of the March For Babies walks are over, team fund raising hasn’t ended. To help raise awareness for this, the California Chapter of the March of Dimes has launched Parents For Preemies.

Parents for Preemies is a grassroots fundraiser where local establishments sell paper “baby blocks” to raise much needed funds for the March of Dimes. You can help by supporting your local retail businesses and organizations when they ask for a contribution for the March of Dimes – they’ll take as little as a dollar. Or, if you are really super motivated, you can pitch the campaign to your local establishments!

I feel a bit guilty pointing everyone toward yet another way to part with their hard-earned money. But I just have to show you why this campaign means even more to us than it already would. These bookmarks will be handed out to anyone and everyone.

Maddie Bookmark
click for a larger image

No matter what, we are so thankful for all that has been done for us and Madeline. Saying “Thank You” just isn’t enough, but for now, it will have to do.

If you are in California, and would like to pitch or learn more about the Parents For Preemies campaign,  please contact my staff partner, Cynthia Shane Smith at 415-217-6382 or csmith@marchofdimes.com.