Local ambassadors share March of Dimes mission

The Goss family—Stephanie, Matt, Colton and Blakely—have been named the 2018 March For Babies Ambassador Family for Rockdale, Newton and Walton counties.

Ambassadors bring to life the mission of the March of Dimes, sharing how they have been affected and helped by research, programs, advocacy, or educational campaigns funded by the organization. Since 1946, families have represented the organization in this distinct volunteer role.

The Goss family Journey with March of Dimes began in 2016 when at 21 weeks, Stephanie Goss was admitted to the hospital on complete bed rest due to a slow rupture in the amniotic sac surrounding the baby. After some situations that could have threatened both the life of mother and baby, the decision was made to induce labor.  At 23 weeks, baby Olivia Goss was born at 1 pound, 1ounce and 11 inches long. Sadly, for the Goss family, Olivia did not survive. But this is not the end of their story. Stephanie has since given birth to a healthy and thriving baby girl named Blakely who is now a year old.

While the Goss family had been involved with the mission of the March of dimes for many years prior, they formed their own fundraising team in honor of Olivia and to date have raised more than $6,100 to improve the health of mothers and babies.

The Rockdale / Newton / Walton March for Babies 5K walk event will take place May 5 at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m. For more information regarding this family friendly event visit www.marchforbabies.org/event/rockdale or call JaNice Van Ness at 770-356-7301.