‘March for Babies’ set for Sept. 8

‘March for Babies’ set for Sept. 8

Campaign kick- off Aug. 14, Holmes Hammett to be honored

ralphhardin@gmail.com “The work of the March of Dimes is so important because Crittenden County has high rates of infant mortality and prematurity higher than the national rates.” Crittenden County Judge Woody Wheeless told the crowd at last year’s March of Dimes “March for Babies” event. “Locally, the rate of prematurity is 17.3 percent, with the goal to reduce this to 9.6 percent by 2020.”

The March of Dimes aims to reduce premature birth in the United States and to give every baby a fair chance for a healthy fullterm birth. Premature birth and its complications are the number-one killer of babies in the United States and East Arkansas is no exception. In comparison to the national average, Crittenden County has almost twice the number of preterm births. Babies who survive premature birth often have long-term health problems, including cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, chronic lung disease, blindness and hearing loss. Preterm birth places both an emotional and financial burden on families. The average financial cost of having a premature baby is $50,000.

The “March for Babies” is one of the March of Dimes' biggest events of the year.

And for years, one of the March’s biggest supporters was longtime West Memphis Chamber of Commerce executive director Holmes Hammett. Holmes passed away earlier this year, but organizers plan to continue his efforts while recognizing his contribution to the cause.

“This year's event will not only benefit the organization's mission, but it will also honor a founding member of the Crittenden County March of Dimes Chapter, Holmes Hammett,” said Angelina Weems, who has stepped in to spearhead this year’s March. “Holmes made many contributions to the city of West Memphis, both professionally and through volunteer work. He served as a devoted board member and faithful volunteer to the March of Dimes for over 15 years. Holmes worked relentlessly to enhance and expand community services, and to improve systems of care for mothers, babies and their families.”

The March of Dimes’ mission to fight against infant mortality, premature birth and birth defects is a neverending battle. It is also a community-wide effort with events planned throughout the year and culminating with the “March for Babies” in September.

“Although Holmes passed away this year, we are determined to carry on with our community's work to lower the pre-term birth rate in Crittenden County,” said Weems.

The Campaign Kickoff for this year's event will take place on Tuesday, Aug. 14, at Pilgrim’s Rest Baptist Church, located at 300 S.

14th St., in West Memphis, beginning at 6 p.m. The community is invited to come and be a part of the effort.

“Join us to continue Holmes' work to build a brighter future by giving every baby a fighting chance at a healthy life,” said Weems.

The “March for Babies” Crittenden County Susan Muncy Memorial Walk will take place on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018 at Lehr Arena in West Memphis. All proceeds will benefit the March of Dimes’ mission.

“Holmes Hammett believed in this community and realized long ago our city depends on the development of our children,” said Weems. “This begins with a healthy mom and baby.”

For more information about supporting the March for Babies, contact the West Memphis Chamber of Commerce at (870) 7351134.

By Ralph Hardin