Blessings Great & Small
In the spring of 2015, Bill and Amy Payne of Mount Pleasant were thrilled to learn they were expecting their second child. As Amy’s February 2016 due date approached, the couple planned and celebrated their growing family. Then, last Christmas, time seemed to stop when complications forced Amy to give birth prematurely. This holiday season, the couple shares their harrowing story (see box on page 21), as well as their gratitude for its happy ending.
One in seven babies is born prematurely in South Carolina according to the SC Chapter of the March of Dimes. The MOD works to prevent premature birth, birth defects and lower infant mortality across the country and here at home. In the Lowcountry alone more than 2000 families are affected by premature birth and/or birth defects each year. When the Paynes became one of these families, they knew they wanted to give back to the MOD in their own way, right away.
The Paynes were named 2016 Ambassador Family for the annual “Signature Chef’s Auction” held on October 20 to benefit the local chapter of the March of Dimes. The black tie event featured gourmet samples from 16 of the Lowcountry’s most acclaimed chefs and raised more than $260,000 to fund programs that help local mothers and babies.
Daniel Island resident Terry Haas has served as the chairperson and emcee for the fundraiser for the past five years.
“I have two healthy, beautiful children and I don’t take that for granted,” Haas said. “It’s a beautiful night that benefits a special cause.”
“Most people know that the March of Dimes helps babies,” she continued. “Lesser known, but equally important, is the work they do to ensure healthy pregnancies and fund research for childhood cancers.”
Daniel Island mother Stephanie Mackara became a donor and advocate for the national charity when her now healthy 10 year-old son was born six weeks premature.
“Without the research and facilities funded by this organization, our son truly might not have survived,” she shared. “The work they do is miraculous.”
“My preemie daughter is now approaching her first birthday,” Amy said. “We are so thankful for the work of the March of Dimes and for our family of four. This has definitely been a year of gratitude.”