WHEREAS, Premature births are a serious and growing problem, and are the leading cause of newborn deaths in America; and
WHEREAS, Premature births are also the leading obstetrical problem in the United States, affecting one in every eight babies; and
WHEREAS, A premature birth can happen to any woman; nearly half of all early births happen for unknown reasons; and
WHEREAS, Premature babies can suffer lifelong consequences, such as chronic health problems or developmental disabilities, putting a strain on families and on society; and
WHEREAS, Despite the fact that prematurity is a serious and costly problem for us all, most people are unaware of its magnitude; and
WHEREAS, For 65 years, the March of Dimes has been fighting for the health and well-being of America's children and is now taking on the problem of prematurity; therefore
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Recognizes November 18, 2003 as Prematurity Awareness Day, in which we commend and support the March of Dimes in their efforts to fund research and programs to find causes of prematurity.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be presented to the March of Dimes as a sincere expression of our support and encourage all citizens of the City of Philadelphia to support the March of Dimes in this endeavor.
End