Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D. as the 2018 March for Babies chair

The 2018 March for Babies chair is Tedd L. Mitchell, M.D., Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center president. The March of Dimes Ambassador Family is Jennifer & Jack Kassis. 

“More than half a million babies are born prematurely each year across the country,” Mitchell said. “Thanks to companies and community members in West Texas, the March of Dimes is making progress. Still, too many babies are born too soon or sick. We hope the community will join us in walking together for stronger, healthier babies. 

March for Babies is the biggest annual fundraiser for March of Dimes. The 2018 event goal is to raise $275,000 to help March of Dimes lead the fight for the health of all moms and babies. The 2018 March for Babies is April 14 at Texas Tech University Raider Alley, Drive of Champions and Canton Ave.

“Everyone should consider supporting the March of Dimes because of its important mission to improve the health of babies,” Mitchell said. “Many people may not remember that President Franklin Roosevelt created the March of Dimes to help eradicate polio. This led to the discovery of a vaccine that ended a polio epidemic in the U.S. Now the focus is on preventing birth defects and infant mortality. When you support the March for Babies, you help take steps to end these health issues.”

Since 2003, the organization’s prematurity campaign has directed the fight to save babies. The rising incidence of premature birth has demanded action, and the March of Dimes has responded by initiating an intensive, multi-year campaign to raise awareness and find the causes of prematurity.

The March of Dimes has led the way to discover the genetic causes of birth defects, to promote newborn screening and to educate medical professionals and the public about best practices for healthy pregnancy.

For more information about how to participate or donate, contact the March of Dimes at (806) 686-0305.