The March of Dimes seeks to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature births and infant mortality. It was formed in 1938 by President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, to respond to the problem of infantile paralysis (polio), which was an epidemic of that time. In 1955 the Salk vaccine was declared "safe, effective and potent" to stop polio. Throughout its history the March of Dimes has funded successful research to create solutions for helping babies be healthy and thrive.
Prematurity is an epidemic today, rising by 41% in Massachusetts in the last 10 years. In 1970, the first WalkAmerica began to raise money to fund research, education and advocacy toward the day when every baby is born healthy. The walk continues today with thousands of volunteers leading the way. WalkAmerica for Cape Cod, the Islands, and Plymouth County is scheduled for April 29th at the Canal Park in Buzzards Bay. For information and to sign up go to www.walkamerica.org. Or, call the Hyannis office at 508-790-1093.
Every day, babies fight for their lives. And every day the March of Dimes helps them win.
