Meet VIRGINIA's Ambassador Family!
08-Apr-09 |
Sharon and Jackie Patrick believe in preparation, commitment and responsibility. The high school sweethearts completed their education, married and started their careers. Jackie joined the Navy, and Sharon signed on with Enterprise Rent-A-Car. When it was time to start a family, there was a plan and a timeline for a little Patrick.
Two unforeseeable events, however, changed Sharon and Jackie’s well-planned lives forever. First, they found out they were having twins. Then the tiny babies arrived two months early.
“I will never forget how quickly excitement and anticipation turned to fear,” said Sharon.
Son Jalen and daughter Kaylen arrived at two pounds each and spent their first months in the neonatal intensive care unit. Kaylen endured four life-saving surgeries. Jackie remembers warnings that his babies may not survive followed by worries of developmental delays that preemies often face.
Eight years later, Jalen and Kaylen are energetic, honor roll students who excel in reading, writing and running.
After experiencing the birth of premature babies and the difficult follow-up years, the Patricks decided to dedicate time and their personal story to promote awareness and raise funds to help prevent other families from facing the experience of a premature baby. As a Greater Hampton Roads Division ambassador family for the past three years, they have spoken at campaign kick-offs, community events and participated in numerous walks and several chef’s events. When Sharon shared her commitment with Enterprise Rent-A-Car, they signed on as the first statewide team.
As the 2009, Virginia Chapter Ambassador Family, the Patricks will become even more outspoken and busy as they travel the state.
“I am proud that Enterprise supports the March of Dimes,” said Sharon “and that as a family we can continue the tradition of giving to improve the health of others”
Jackie agrees and implores others: “Please join us in the cause that believes every baby deserves to be born healthy.”
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