Meet the Cape Cod Ambassador Family -- The Wackrow Family

This is the Wackrows third year walking in the Cape Cod March for Babies as Team Taylor Tot. They are consistently a top family team for our state and Jocelyn is a fundraising pro! Although the Wackrow family lives in MD, they return to their native MA to walk on Cape Cod each year with family and friends. We are so grateful to have their support in our state! Here is why they walk in March for Babies, in Jocelyn's (Taylor's mom) words:

At 41 years of age, I was considered high risk while pregnant with Taylor. Having had Pre-eclampsia in the past with my two sons, born at 33 and 34 weeks, I was closely monitored during my pregnancy.  I gradually became ill in my second trimester and was admitted to the hospital at 27 weeks. I had HELLP syndrome which is a variant of Pre-eclampsia.

Due to my condition, Taylor was delivered via an emergency c-section at 27 weeks, 6 days.  Due to my illness, I was unable to be part of Taylor’s first days.  This was the beginning of life in the NICU for our family. Taylor’s had many scary and life-threatening health battles in the NICU.  Taylor battled in the NICU’s of two hospitals for 139 days.  Each day was filled with both setbacks and victories.

 Taylor in the NICU

 The past four years have been filled with clinics, doctors, physical therapy, occupational therapy and illnesses due to her prematurity.   Taylor has overcome her blood disorder, breathing issues, Torticollis, hip dysplasia, pneumonia, RSV and numerous other health conditions.   

Today, Taylor amazes her and us doctors with her cognitive abilities.  She continues to struggle with her physical development and eyesight, yet her fierce spirit propels her forward. 

Taylor, Age 4

Our commitment to March for babies began with a long night in the NICU watching Taylor fight to live.  The March of Dimes research and support is critical to help fight prematurity and we are extremely grateful.

 

The Wackrow Family