Pasta for Preemies

Gainesville High School's March of Dimes Youth Leadership Council is putting on a fundraiser for all ages, "Pasta for Preemies." The event will take place Nov. 1 at 7 p.m. at Gainesville's Hilton.

Pasta for Preemies is a spaghetti dinner and fashion show rolled up into one educational and delicious fundraiser. Attendees are able to enjoy an Olive Garden sponsored dinner while young children who have survived the threat of prematurity model the latest child fashions from Macy's and JCPenny's.

Each child's personal story will be mentioned as they strut along the cat walk. Throughout the presentation, the community will be able to see first hand how the work of the March of Dimes has saved our community and country's children.

The event will also have a silent auction with all donations going straight to the March of Dimes in their funding efforts for research on the epidemic of prematurity.

Tickets can be purchased online at the March of Dimes site. The price is $10. Questions can be directed to Jane Smith at 352-990-5555.

It's a rollercoaster.

Having a preterm baby is a number of things. It is a suprise. It is a Plan B. But it is also an emotional rollercoaster that both a mother and father are caught on. Prematurity is an epidemic within our nation, and it is not slowing down anytime soon. The mothers and fathers that have been caught on the ride sometimes make it off with a healthy baby, and other times do not have the opportunity to hold the newest addition to their family for weeks and months. Every individual has been affected or knows someone touched by the threat of permaturity. So, this area is a safe zone and it can be your escape if you need it. However, it is also an area for celebration. Each child should be celebrated for the beautiful being that they are or could have been. This is the space for you to share your experiences and look to others for support and guidance whether your rollercoaster ride has ended or is just beginning.