Pocono News Section

March of Dimes Inspires Family to Help

March of Dimes Inspires Family to Help - Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 5:20PM EST

BARRETT TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY - Dawn and Jonathan Rack savor every family moment because there was a time when they thought they couldn't have a family. "We had two years of fertility treatments and several procedures and we got pregnant with Hunter," said Dawn.
The couple considered Hunter's birth a miracle. Then on his first birthday, another miracle. Dawn smiled, "Much to our surprise we spontaneously became pregnant with Kendra - without any help."

There were problems with the pregnancy. Dawn went into labor six weeks early. Doctor's rushed her into an emergency C-section. She said, "The nurse comes to me and says I just want to prepare you, she might not be born alive."

Kendra was born alive and immediately rushed to the neonatal intensive care unit. Doctors weren't sure she'd make it out alive. But she pulled through. Kendra had severe problems, including under-developed lungs. Doctors and home care givers gave her special treatment and she is now a happy 2-year-old.

The family thanks the March of Dimes. Jonathan said, "It sponsored all the research that saved our daughter's life."

Now Dawn and Jonathan work as ambassadors for the organization. Dawn said, "If we can save one more baby's life - to me then this is all worth it."

For the Racks, every dime someone donates provides precious family moments that you can't put a price on.

There is a March of Dimes walk in Monroe County this Saturday. It starts at 10 a. m. at East Stroudsburg University. For more information or to donate call 610-439-7420.