2009 National Ambassador: Katelyn's Story

Born no longer than a ballpoint pen, Katelyn Marie Hall, a premature baby girl survived overwhelming odds to be named the 2009 March of Dimes National Ambassador. Katelyn was given only a 5% chance of survival and spent 5 months in the NICU, before her parents, Ashley and Michael could bring her home. Today Katelyn is a happy and energetic 5-year old, but she does have consequences from her early arrival. Katelyn was chosen as the 2009 National Ambassador because she exemplifies the long term problems faced by many children who survive an extremely early birth.

Ashley and Michael are determined to raise a million dollars, the cost of Katelyns medical care, for the March of Dimes so the organization can help more babies and families. The video highlights Katelyns inspiring story and her parents successful fundraising efforts and dedication to the March of Dimes mission.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• march
• of
• dimes
• national
• ambassador
• katelyn
• hall
• premature
• prematurity
• baby
• babies
• mom
• mother

[villamom24]

i had a child when i was 20 years old and he was born at 28 weeks 5 days and weighed only 2 pounds 10 ounces he spent 83 days in the hospital and we almost lost him while he was in the hospital. but now he will be turning 4 in july 2009 and is 34 pounds and he likes to get in trouble by biting his younger brother

[lyndsayarbenowske]

i have two daughters 2, and 4 both born as micro premies weighing less than one and a half pounds and ariving 15-16 weeks early. No one can ever know this heartache, unless you have expierenced it firsthand. Join the march, and help give babies a chance.

[Redaction707]

This video brought such tears of joy and pain to my eyes. Our son was born 10 weeks premature last June. He was in the NICU for 59 long and stressful days, and now he's doing great. He's back on track and such a happy baby. The doctors don't know why he came so early, but because of it he had an immature digestive system and couldn't tolerate his feedings for a long time. Now he's our lil' pig, he's on my lap watching me now as I type this. I am so grateful that he is doing more than well !!!!