SUPPORT THE MISSION
Berks County Ambassador Family – The Johnson’s Story
We were thrilled to find out that we were expecting twins in the fall of 2015. While our pregnancy was considered to be high risk, we weren’t anticipating any unexpected complications. However, at 24 weeks, Salina went into premature labor.
On May 8, 2016 and 16 weeks too soon, our babies were born. Ava at just 1 lb. 6 oz. and Antonio at 1 lb., 7oz. They were immediately whisked away to the NICU. When we finally got to see our babies in the NICU, we were overwhelmed by the constant beeping of the monitors, the multiple respirators and ventilators, IV sticks, medications, and feeding tubes.
After 8 days, we were finally able to hold Ava and we continued to look after her brother, Antonio, through an incubator as he developed a staph infection and needed special care. At 18 days old, Antonio lost his fight and we lost our son and brother.
Each day we grow stronger, and our struggles made every milestone, giggle, smile, and tear worth it. Ava is now 15 months old, and a very happy and healthy toddler. Throughout all of the ups and downs of this journey, we have learned so much. We’re proud to be representing the March of Dimes and sharing our story, for the funds that they are raising is supporting so many kinds of research that could benefit families like ours- healthy pregnancies for mothers, and full term deliveries.
Proceeds raised at the event help fund their mission: to give all babies a healthy start to life. We would love to have you contribute towards this goal with your 100% tax deductible gift. Alongside our family, we want to make a difference to others – no parent should have to watch their children go through what Ava and Antonio have experienced. We appreciate your consideration of this important cause that is now so near and dear to our hearts. Together with the March of Dimes, we look forward to a day when every baby is born healthy. Thank you so much!
Sincerely,
Salina, DJ, Celeste, Gianna, Ava, and Antonio
Guests can look forward to Fund the Mission at the event. But if you’re unable to join us, please consider contributing by selecting "Purchase Now" above or by mailing a check payable to March of Dimes to: MOD Berks SCA, 252 Brodhead Road, Suite 400, Bethlehem, PA 18017