On February 28, 2010, the Student Nurses Association (SNA) Orlando chapter at UCF participated in the March for Babies walk on UCF’s main campus. This 5k walk is organized by the March of Dimes to fight premature infancy and related pregnancy issues.
As one of the major events the SNA participates in annually, SNA has dedicated their time and efforts for four years now to the March of Dimes and will continue to be a part of it for years to come. Members of SNA collected donations from sponsors in hopes to create more awareness in the community.
“As future nurses, we understand the importance of research in developing and providing more efficient health care. Prevention and awareness are key, and the fulfillment gained has only been rivaled by that felt when providing care to patients,” says Cortney Jones, a senior in the bachelor of nursing program and treasurer for SNA Orlando.
Each year, more than 460,000 babies are born too soon and run the risk of health problems. The money raised will help expecting mothers have full-term pregnancies and allow their babies to have a chance at a healthy life.
The March of Dimes was created to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Through research, community outreach, education and advocacy, its mission is to save babies’ lives. The March of Dimes also provides free one-on-one consultations for women about pregnancy related topics through its Pregnancy & Newborn Health Education Center. For more information, visit www.marchofdimes.com.
Contributing writer: Kristin Soto, UCF College of Nursing communications intern