On November 4, 2004, I gave birth to identical twin boys at 25 weeks gestation--Kyle (weighing 1 lb 3 oz) was born sleeping, having been crushed when my water broke and Kraig was taken immediately to the NICU where he spent the next 11 weeks. Kraig, weighing just 1 pound 13 ounces overcame many obstacles and endured many procedures "common" for premature infants--daily blood tests, numerous x-rays, infections treated with IV antibiotics, central line IVs, blood transfusions, apnea/bradycardia spells, oxygen administration, and several resuscitation efforts. He came home in January 2005 on oxygen, underwent laser eye surgery at 12 weeks of age (the week after he came home), continues to be monitored bi-annually by a pediatric ophthalmologist and every 2 years by a retina specialist. He has also received physical, occupational, and speech therapy. However, he is now a happy, healthy 6 year old!!! He wears glasses for nearsightedness, partly due to the ROP and partly due to genetics. He talks like a little man--we call them Kraigisms--is forever singing and playing. He attended special needs preschool for pervasive development disorder and has such made tremendous progress that he no longer meets the state of TN criteria for special education resources. (although he may continue to qualify for assistance related to his vision). His success is due in large part to the research and treatment efforts of the March of Dimes.
Every good and perfect gift
Comes from Heaven above.
We were blessed with twins
To cherish and love.
Made together, to grow apart;
One in our arms, the other in our Heart.
Kyle Gregory--God's finger touched him and he slept (1' 3")
Kraig Stewart--our warrior (1'13"),
now 6 yrs old
Every day, thousands of babies are born too soon, too small and often very sick. I am walking in March for Babies because I want to do something about this. I know you care, too. That's why I'm asking you to join us. It's easy: just click the button in the upper left column.
If you can't walk with us, please help by donating to my team. You can do so on my team page,
www.marchforbabies.org/madetogether . Thank you for helping us give all babies a healthy start!
The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.
