March of Dimes Thanks MedStar Montgomery Medical Center During Day of Gratitude

Olney, MD — The local March of Dimes held a Day of Gratitude event at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center Maternal Newborn Center. It was an opportunity for the March of Dimes staff to express thanks to the doctors, nurses and other health care professionals for all that they do each day as they care for these fragile babies and their families.

Hospital staff was presented with a plaque in recognition of their efforts to support the March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies. “We wanted to show our gratitude for these talented, compassionate caregivers who dedicate themselves and their time to the delicate mission we are also passionate about,” said Kate Hornyan, March of Dimes Greater DC Market Development Manager. “It was a meaningful experience to honor the dedicated staff at MedStar Montgomery.”

Although we continue to make strides in this area, the nation experienced a slight increase in its preterm birth rate from 9.57% (2014) to 9.63% (2015). A small, but statistically significant increase. This is the first time in eight years that the nation has experienced an increase. Approximately 380,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the U.S. In Maryland, over 1,422 babies are born each week, and 143 of these are born preterm (before 37 weeks completed weeks of gestation). These babies face an increased risk of serious medical complications and life-long disabilities. Some may not reach their first birthday. In addition to the physical and emotional effects, a preterm birth can cost 12 times more than an uncomplicated birth and costs the U.S. health care system more than $26 billion each year.

The March of Dimes helps moms have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies. And, if something goes wrong, we offer information and comfort to families. We research the problems that threaten babies and work on preventing them. Since the organization was established in 1938, March of Dimes work has led to discoveries that shape today’s standards of a healthy pregnancy.

] Chanda Satchell, MMMC Maternal Newborn Center Unit Manager, Kate Hornyan, March of Dimes Development Manager, and Paula Rodney, MMMC Director of Nursing[/caption]

November is Prematurity Awareness Month®, and a key time when the March of Dimes focuses everyone’s attention on the serious problem of premature birth. An estimated 15 million babies are born premature and of those more than a million die as a result of their early birth.

About MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
MedStar Montgomery Medical Center is a 138-bed not-for-profit hospital serving the greater Baltimore and Washington metropolitan areas. A proud member of MedStar Health, MedStar Montgomery is committed to delivering the latest in modern medicine and medical technology.

About the March of Dimes
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.