Join us at WalkAmerica, April 28, 2007

Premature birth can affect any pregnant woman of any background, for unknown reasons, and is the leading cause of newborn death in the United States. That’s why the March of Dimes has launched a campaign to help all babies be born full term and healthy, and why UAB is helping as a sponsor of WalkAmerica in April.

One in six babies in Alabama is born prematurely—higher than the national average of one in eight babies. The number of babies born prematurely each year has actually increased 30 percent since 1983. Premature babies can grow up to face lifelong disabilities and health problems. Proceeds from WalkAmerica support research and programs to prevent premature births and to help affected families. A large portion of the money raised goes directly to support UAB programs that touch the lives of these children and their families.

WalkAmerica is the March of Dimes’ biggest fundraiser, with nearly half a million people across the country participating. The Birmingham WalkAmerica is the largest in the state, with nearly 2,000 walkers from 500 businesses participating. Anyone can help by signing up to walk and raise money either as an individual or by getting friends or co-workers to form teams. Many corporations already have teams, so check with your employer to get started.

WalkAmerica is Saturday, April 28, starting at the UAB MiniPark, on University Boulevard between 13th and 14th Streets. For more information or to register, please call 1-800-525-WALK or visit walkamerica.org.