Posted by By Shametra L. Thomas – Dallas South News Contributor
Preterm birth is the leading cause of death in newborns in the United States. One in seven babies are born prematurely in Texas. Studies show that African-American women are 18% more likely to deliver a child preterm. March of Dimes unveiled Prematurity: A Family Struggle and Community Crisis a photographic journey of families grappling with the effects of preterm birth at the African American Museum of Dallas.
Guests were serenaded by gospel recording artist Anita Jarrell Robertson and encouraged in prayer by Overseer Elvis L. Bowman Sr. of Greater Mt. Tabor Christian Center and Honey Child Learning Lab. Entertainment was also provided by members of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Project Alpha. Speakers included Neonatologist Dr. Terri Major-Kincade and Victoria Leland informed the audience about the impact of prematurity in the African-American community.
A proclamation was presented by District 7 Dallas City Council member Carolyn Davis. Many of the families featured in the exhibit were on hand to celebrate and share their stories in honor of National Premature Awareness Month.
Anita Jarrell Robertson was very candid about her family’s experience after her daughter Jessica arrived at 35 weeks. Not only was Jessica born 5 weeks short of her due date, but she was also diagnosed with leukemia at one month old. Their bundle of joy was hospitalized for 5 ½ months, receiving chemotherapy treatments. Anita and her husband were repeatedly shaken by doctors grim prognosis who have little Jessica a slim chance of living.
They experienced the rollercoaster of emotions many parents of critically ill children do. In the most trying moments they pulled together, often finding strength in their daughter. Jessica is a true worshipper and can be found in her room singing.
“It encourages my husband and me because many times we thought she wasn’t going to make it,” said Anita. “Regardless of the pain that she experiences she can be found worshiping God,” Anita said, “She is a true worshiper and requires us to have a good attitude.” “She requires us to live a faithful life,” shares Anita. Jessica is in preschool loves to dance and play practical jokes. “She is the perfect first child.”
The photo exhibit is a powerful reminder of the effects of prematurity. It takes you on an intimate journey of these children and their families. Reflecting times of sadness, triumphant and sheer perseverance-raw emotions peer back at you from each photo. It tells a story that no statistic could.
Prematurity: A Family Struggle and Community Crisis will be available for public viewing at the African American Museum of Dallas located at 3536 Grand Avenue, Fair Park Dallas, Texas November 18th-30th. For more information about preterm infants contact March of Dimes at 972-669-3463 9 (Dallas) or 817-451-9174 9 (Fort Worth).
Shametra L. Thomas is a Dallas area business woman and advocate. She can be reached at streinventing@aol.com.
Edited by Shawn Williams
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