Hello...

Hi, everyone.

You've heard from me before in this space, but this walk season, it's going to be on a bit more official basis, so I thought I'd introduce myself on a more official basis, as well.

My name is Lindsay Wagner Atherton and I've been volunteering with the March of Dimes since late 2009. Last week, I started in my new role as Family Teams Specialist for the Massachusetts chapter. I'll be working mainly on the Worcester, Springfield and Lowell walks.

My road to March of Dimes was a bit different from that of many volunteers. It wasn't my own experience with prematurity or loss that led me to March of Dimes, but the experiences of people very dear to me. The experiences they had left me feeling so futile. There seemed to be nothing I could do to help. So, naturally, when one of those friends was participating in the March for Babies in 2008, I jumped at the chance to aid in that fundraising effort.

The following year, I participated again. Afterward, I got an email asking if I might be interested in getting more involved. I thought, "Why not?" and replied yes. And that simple action has brought me so many wonderful things, I've lost count.

Being a part of this amazing organization, first as a walker, then as a volunteer, and now as an employee has been so rewarding. It has given me a new sense of purpose. Like many of us, I have known way too many babies born too soon or born with health issues. So, being active in an organization that works so hard to prevent these things means more than I can express.

So, I hope that, throughout this walk season, you'll join me, as well as Erin, in getting to know some of our families, in sharing tips on fundraising and walk prep, and in having a lot of fun while doing a lot of good for babies.