March of Dimes Fundraiser Raises Awareness for Maternal and Infant Health in Pittsburgh: Inspiring Stories of Survival and Loss

In Pittsburgh, three thousand people gathered on the North Shore to participate in the March of Dimes fundraiser. The event supported families facing maternal and infant health challenges. John Bricker of Harrisburg, who lost his son Greg in 1982 due to a heart defect at just three and a half years old, found the pain still deeply affecting him. His surviving twin brother, Eric, also felt the loss and supported the family’s participation in the March for Babies event.

The March of Dimes aims to provide resources and education to help mothers and babies have the best possible outcomes. Jim Hogan, chair of the Western Pennsylvania Board of Directors, emphasized the importance of letting families know they are not alone in facing such challenges. With statistics showing a high rate of preterm births in the United States, it is crucial to continue raising awareness and funding for maternal and infant health.

John Bricker has been participating in the March of Dimes walk for 50 years, inspired to prevent others from experiencing the same loss he did. As he nears the milestone of raising $1 million for the cause, John was honored with the John Bricker Legacy Award. He remained dedicated to giving every child a fighting chance and keeping his son Greg’s memory alive.

The march was an emotional experience for many participants who had their own stories to share about maternal and infant health challenges they had faced or witnessed firsthand. Despite these challenges, they came together as one community determined to make a difference.

Overall, this event was not only about raising funds but also about bringing hope and support to families facing maternal and infant health challenges. With continued efforts like these, we can work towards creating a world where every baby has a healthy start in life.