Raleigh, North Carolina, February 07, 2013 —

The Triangle Division of March of Dimes is proud to announce Roman and Sophia Sebastianelli, age 3  and the Sebastianelli family of Wake County as the Foundation’s 2013 Triangle March for Babies Ambassadors.

Roman and Sophia Sebastianelli entered the world 17 weeks too early. Heather, Jeff and big sister, Stella had no idea the journey they were about to take when Heather’s contractions began unexpectedly the morning of July 7.  They hoped that after being transported via ambulance, the contractions would stop and Roman and Sophia would stay put, but after fighting fearlessly over the weekend they made plans for the twin’s arrival.

Roman Jeffrey was born July 9, 2012 at 9:42 p.m. weighed 1.14 pounds and Sophia at 9:54 p.m. weighing 1.9 pounds. The babies endured collapsed lungs, apnea episodes, brain hemorrhages, numerous surgeries and went from oxygen tubes to feeding tubes.

The family is thrilled be the face of the Triangle walk this year. Heather stated, “It is such an honor to be able to give something back and raise money for an organization we are so passionate about. It will also be a perfect way to meet and greet all our Prayer Warriors!”

Roman and Sophia are truly a miracle. What is most surprising about this journey is that this family had no idea that the March of Dimes was with them every step of the way. As both Roman and Sophia were admitted into the NICU, March of Dimes was there. When they both received surfactant treatments, March of Dimes was there. As Heather and Jeff held their precious angels using Kangaroo Care, March of Dimes was there, just to name a few.  If not for March of Dimes, their story might not have had a happy ending. They are telling their story to encourage you and thank you for participating in March for Babies! For the Sebastianelli Family and so many more, the seemingly simple task of raising awareness will help the March of Dimes continue to save millions of lives, one baby at a time.

As Ambassadors, the Sebastianelli family will speak at local and regional meetings, explaining how the March of Dimes has benefited them and encouraging others to join the cause. The March of Dimes walk is April 27 at the Imperial Center located in Durham, NC 27703. More information is available at marchforbabies.org.

In 2013, the March of Dimes celebrates its 75th Anniversary and its ongoing work to help babies get a healthy start in life.  Early research led to the Salk and Sabin polio vaccines that all babies still receive.  Other breakthroughs include new treatments for premature infants and children with birth defects.  About 4 million babies are born each year in the United States and all have benefited from March of Dimes lifesaving research and education.