Northwest AHEC joined the March for Babies movement to create positive change for moms and babies everywhere, especially those most at risk. 

Our team, Atrium WFBH - Northwest AHEC joined together on April 25th to walk a 3 mile/5K at WFU McCreary Tower to support this cause. With preterm birth and maternal death rates continuing to rise, we’re committed to raising funds so that every family gets the best possible start. And you can help us.

NWAHEC staff joined the March for Babies 5K team and raised almost $500 to support March for Babies movement. Feel free to visit our fundraising page to make a donation. Together we are part of a movement to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.

Northwest AHEC staff joined together with Big Brothers Big Sisters to walk in memory of our dear staff member, Roderica “Nicole” McLaurin. Nicole unexpectedly passed away in 2020 after delivering her second son, Dylan. Each staff member wore a white ribbon in memory of Nicole during our walk, and we were joined by members of Nicole's family and her close friends.

Nicole was a beloved staff member of the Northwest AHEC. She grew up in Winston Salem and graduated from Fayetteville State University. During her childhood she was a little sister in the local Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) organization. 

How We Measure Up

We have a lot of work to do. On the March of Dimes website there is a "report card" feature which shows the state of North Carolina Preterm Birth Grade as a D+.  In the 2020 Report Card key indicators are highlighted to describe and improve maternal and infant health in the United States (U.S.). Preterm birth and its complications are the second largest contributor to infant death in the U.S., and preterm birth rates have been increasing for five years. Our preterm birth rate is 10.7% as a state and 12.2% for Forsyth County. Prematurity grades are assigned by comparing the 2019 preterm birth grade to March of Dimes' goal of 8.1 percent by 2020.

Social Determinants of Health

Many structural, systemic and environmental factors influence the health of moms and babies, especially for Black, American Indian and Alaska Native people. When looking at factors such as access to maternity care, financial stability and health insurance status, these disparities persist. Systemic racism and the wealth gap in the U.S. deepen many health inequities in our society. The onset of COVID-19 has further magnified preexisting health disparities. March of Dimes is collaborating with others to confront these drivers of health outcomes, while identifying solutions to achieve health equity for all.

March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. They support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every mom and baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation, they empower every mom and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information. Find on Facebook and follow us with #marchofdimes and @marchofdimes.