Dear Fellow County Employee,

Most people don’t realize what a serious and widespread problem premature birth is. In just one year in San Diego County, over 4,700 babies are born too soon.

Nearly all of us have felt the emotional strain of a baby born too soon – either personally or through family, friends or co-workers. In fact, to help illustrate how serious this issue is, two of our very own County colleagues have agreed to share their personal stories in a CTN video that’s posted here on CWW. While their children are happy and healthy now, premature babies can suffer from chronic lung ailments, developmental delays, impaired vision and other serious impediments to their growth and health.

The County of San Diego has a longstanding partnership with the March of Dimes, which is working to address this issue, and for a good reason - we have the same goals. One of the County’s Strategic Initiatives is for all kids to be safe and healthy. The March of Dimes goal is that one day all babies will be born full term and healthy.

When we raise funds for the March of Dimes, it’s important to note that 100% of those funds stays in San Diego County; with 88% going right back out to research, education, and programs. In fact, research at UCSD, funded by the March of Dimes, is responsible for discovering a life saving lung therapy for preemies- a therapy that saves thousands of lives a year and is used worldwide.

That’s why I’m so proud that we support the March of Dimes each year and participate in their annual March for Babies. We raised more than $63,000 last year. This year, our fundraising goal is $67,000 and our theme is “I make the Difference.” And be assured, with charity donations down, this year’s goal will be a challenge and every single person will make a difference.

One of the best ways to contribute -- and have a great time -- is to join your fellow County workers, their families and me at the March for Babies in Balboa Park on Saturday, April 24^th.

Signing up for March for Babies is easier than ever. You can register online at http://www.marchforbabies.org/ and create your own e-mail message and personal web site that family and friends can use to donate online and support your walk. Be sure to search for the County of San Diego team, then select the team that represents your Group.

And, if you can’t walk, how about sponsoring a co-worker who is walking?

If you have any questions please contact any of the following:

Chair: Holly Davidson: holly.davidson@sdcounty.ca.gov

CSG lead: Vicki Chappell: vicki.chappell@sdcounty.ca.gov

FG3 lead: Steven Penner: steven.penner@sdcounty.ca.gov

LUEG lead: Susie Vaughn: susie.vaughn@sdcounty.ca.gov

HHSA lead: Shauna Rose-Pfeiffer: shauna.rose-pfeiffer@sdcounty.ca.gov

PSG lead: Derryl Acosta: derryl.acosta@sdcounty.ca.gov

On behalf of the County, the March of Dimes and the future babies and families who will benefit from your generosity, I thank you all.

Sincerely,

Walt Ekard

Chief Administrative Officer