Courtesy of Rebekah Barquero/The Cougar
The March of Dimes is an organization with a mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Since 1970, there has been a March for Babies five-mile walk dedicated to promote awareness and raise money for research.
This year, the March for Babies in Houston is Sunday, April 26, here at UH. Students should invite family, friends and loved ones to walk together and support this cause.
Preterm birth affected more than 450,000 babies born in the United States in 2012, and preterm-related deaths accounted for 35 percent of all infant deaths in 2010, which is more than any other single cause, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Premature birth is a huge issue in our country that many are not aware of unless it affects them or a loved one directly. Unfortunately, this issue was thrust before my eyes when my two twin brothers came into the world.
They were born at 23 weeks along, weighing only a little over one pound each. They have been in the Newborn ICU since December and have endured many difficulties, including heart surgery and breathing complications.
Every day has been a miracle, and these babies have been fighting for their lives before even gaining the ability to breathe on their own.
Preterm birth is a leading cause of long-term neurological disabilities in children, including breathing problems, feeding difficulties, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, vision problems and hearing impairment.
Instead of waiting until a life-changing event wakes us up, students should get involved now to participate in a charitable event. There are numerous walks for charities students are able to participate year-round. Another well-known event is the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
According to the website, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer through the Relay For Life movement each year.
If students are unable to walk or run for charity, then spread the word or make a donation. If everyone acts as a whole, it doesn’t take much to make a difference.
Over 40,000 students enrolled at UH in Fall 2014. If every single student gave at least $5 to a charity, the University would raise almost a quarter of a million dollars for a cause.
Students are preoccupied with work, school and personal lives, but that should not mean we should neglect the issues that are happening in our world, our country or our community,
Taking part in organizations and supporting these causes not only helps make a change but can benefit students in the long run, as these activities can be included in a resume or a CV for educational and job opportunities.
According to an article in Corn on the Job, by spending one’s time volunteering for a cause, one can demonstrate this passion and commitment that employers seek — which is a driven individual that engages with the world around them.
Having genuine passion, clarity of vision and leadership skills helps any individual succeed in every aspect of their futures. It is never too late to start getting involved, and students should be encouraged to act together and start making strides in the community for a better future.
Opinion columnist Rebekah Barquero is a print journalism sophomore and may be reached at [email protected].
