MSN student Andrea Shaul wanted to tell her March of Dimes story and how their services including programs, activities and sometimes financial support helps families who give birth to premature babies.

Here's Andrea's story...

I have four grand babies, two of which who were premature. My first granddaughter was born at 29 weeks gestation. While in the hospital receiving care she contracted meningitis, coded once, was resuscitated, and life-flighted to another hospital's NICU. It was always an uphill battle, but not only did she complete it, but at three years and nine months, she is growing strong!

My first grandson was born at 31 weeks gestation. He also required the NICU and CPAP ventilation. He came home on apnea monitors and oxygen sensors. He has had problems with his vision and wears glasses and is almost legally blind. He had issues with high blood pressure related to his kidneys, has respiratory issues, and continues to fight his uphill battle and is doing is strong. He'll be three next month!

I'm familiar with the March of Dimes and I'm happy that they are very active in the lives of families like mine.