Premature Births Affect Grandparents, Too!

 

Debbie and Paul Cafiero were about to enjoy a lovely meal at a restaurant in Carmel, California when they received unexpected news: their daughter Tiffani was in labor 11 weeks before her due date. Paul and Debbie rushed to get a flight back to South Bend, their meal uneaten. Fortunately, Tiffani’s doctor was able to delay the birth another nine days and Owen was born weighing 4 lbs., 3 oz. Tiffani and Owen had minor health problems, and after a three-week hospital stay, Owen came home and the family started their new life together.

 

Who could imagine that the birth of their second grandchild to daughter Gina would also be premature? Gina’s pregnancy was more difficult, and Isaic was born by Caesarean birth after a pregnancy of less than 29 weeks. Isaic weighed only 2 lbs., 4 oz. at birth. It’s nothing short of miraculous that Isaic is now a busy toddler with a new baby sister, Claire.

 

The Cafiero’s experiences have made them passionate supporters of the March of Dimes and the world’s biggest fans of Owen’s physicians, Dr. Olufemi Okanlami and Dr. Olubunmi Okanlami and Isaic’s physicians, Dr. Franklin Dobson and Dr. Zahia Hassan. Paul and Debbie were chairpersons for the March of Dimes 2009 South Bend Signature Chefs Auction because the event honored the Okanlamis. “We contribute the health of Owen and Isaic, if not their very existence, to the work of March of Dimes and the men and women like our grandson’s doctors who make it possible for premature babies to lead normal, healthy lives,” said Paul.

 

Friends and colleagues can expect a cheerful potted mum this fall as Paul plans to purchase several Mums for Moms—a March of Dimes fundraiser spearheaded by The FAMILY Magazine of Michiana. It’s a great way for a grandfather to share his happiness and the promise of healthy babies to other families.