A Coal Township family is increasing their efforts to raise awareness and funds for March of Dimes, an organization that funds research and programs to help newborn babies and their mothers.
Laurie and Dan Krebs and their 2-year-old daughter, Kyleigh, are an ambassador family for the organization and will re-form Kyleigh's Krawlers, a walking team for March for Babies, a charitable three-mile walking event that will be held May 4 at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. The event is March of Dimes' largest fundraiser.
The Krebs have stressed that March of Dimes was a blessing as they struggled through the loss of their newborn son, Landon, and the life and death struggle of his twin sister, Kyleigh, after they were born three months premature on Nov. 2, 2011.
Kyleigh has fully recovered after suffering through a variety of medical issues, all while living the first 59 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Janet Weis Children's Hospital, Danville.
As ambassadors for March of Dimes, Laurie and Dan visit local hospitals, including Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, and Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital, to speak to families on behalf of the organization. The Krebs share their story of how March of Dimes organized various functions, including a pizza party and family portraits, for families whose children were in the NICU. The events, the Krebs say, help families cope through difficult times.
"We have made some appearances to give recognition for what they do," Laurie Krebs said. "We spread the story with other families and community, to explain why we are so supportive with March of Dimes."
To help spread the word, the Krebses will also serve as guest speakers and lead walkers at March for Babies. Their team also set a goal to raise $1,500, which will go to the regional March for Dimes. Last year, the team raised $4,500.
"We were overwhelmed by support. People donated left and right," Laurie said of last year's team. "It's nice to see so many people care."
To help kick off this year's event, a $15 night will be held 6 p.m. April 19 at the Red Men Club, Market Street, Shamokin. The event includes entertainment by R.A.T.L. and all-you-can-eat food and drink.