WalkAmerica helps to fight premature birth on April 29

WalkAmerica, the walk to save babies, is taking place on April 29 at Niagara Square.

WalkAmerica supports the March of Dimes' fight to save babies from premature birth - the leading killer of newborns - and from other serious threats to infant health.

"The babies in Buffalo need our help," said Steve Carmina of Carmina & Wood PC, 2007 chair. "By being a part of WalkAmerica, we can help save babies and give hope to families. We can help give all babies the gift of a healthy start."

More than half a million babies are born too soon every year. Many die.

More than 120,000 babies are born with serious birth defects that can mean a lifetime of disability.

As the first national walk, it has become the March of Dimes' largest fundraiser. To date, WalkAmerica has raised more than $1.7 billion. It is held in 1,100 communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Now in its 37th year, WalkAmerica is expected to draw one million walkers. Overall, more than seven million men, women and children will participate as sponsors, volunteers and walkers this year.

"Last year, Buffalo raised $130,000 to help find the causes of premature birth. Our goal this year is to reach $160,000," Carmina said.

With Buffalo's support in WalkAmerica, the March of Dimes conducts top-level research into causes and prevention of premature birth and birth defects.

The March of Dimes also brings information and emotional support to families who have had a premature or sick baby who is being treated in a neonatal intensive care unit.

For more information about WalkAmerica or to join the event at Buffalo on April 29, visit walkamerica.org or call 1- 800- 525- WALK.

"We are proud to be sponsored locally by Alliance Advisory Group, Pepsi-Cola Bottling and Habasit Belting," added Carmina.

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For more information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org for Spanish.