Melissa Stokes had volunteered and donated to the March of Dimes, but never fully understood the organization’s impact.

That is, until she and her husband Troy had twin daughters, Amber and Raegen, born three months premature.

At birth, Raegan weighed 2.4 pounds and Amber was a mere 1.4 pounds. Raegan spent 16 weeks and Amber stayed 17 weeks at the hospital.

The babies desperately fought for their lives.

The work of the March of Dimes, through its research, technology development and prenatal care training for doctors and nurses over the years is the reason the hospital and staff had the resources to save her babies, Melissa said.

The twins are now happy and healthy two-year-olds, who are our local ambassadors for the March of Dimes.

The experience of the Stokes illustrates just how important it is to have an organization like the March of Dimes constantly working toward cures and resources that save the lives of babies.

The March of Dimes will hold its annual WalkAmerica April 8 at Bloch Park Stadium in Selma.

Last year, organizers brought in $42,000 with 15 walking teams.

This year, the goal is set to raise $43,000 and have 20 teams participate.

It’s important that the organization receive support from Dallas County – the county ranks within the top 13 counties in the state in premature births. Being in a rural area makes it more difficult to obtain equipment and have resources when those premature births take place.

You can help by joining a team, or making a donation to someone who is participating.

For more information on entering, contact Sarah Harris at 334-418-4387.