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Signature Chefs Auction, Knoxville

Even the doctors were amazed when Kristen Miller gave birth to her twins 38 days apart. She is one of the very few (.01 percent) to have a delayed interval delivery. Kristen and Ian Miller were surprised to learn they would be having twins and even more so when her water broke at week 22. She was able to delay labor for two more weeks but at week 24, Micah entered the world. Micah weighed 1lb, 11oz and was 12 inches long. He was in for the fight of his life, literally.

Doctors used a drug to stop Kristen's labor and ordered two weeks of bed rest. Eventually, she was able to take a wheelchair (and later walk) to the NICU to see Micah even though she was still pregnant with his twin sister Madilyn. Madilyn was born at week 29. She was much further along than Micah had been, but she was not "out of the woods" yet.  Thanks to the miraculous effects of Surfactant, a March of Dimes researched drug, both babies were able to overcome serious respiratory problems and risks. Micah was diagnosed with a chronic lung disease and Kristen and Ian were told he would most likely need oxygen to help him breathe for the first several years of his life. Thanks to the availability of Surfactant, he went home before his due date and was able to breathe 100 percent, independently shortly after his first birthday.  Meanwhile, Madilyn was able to breathe room air three days after she was born.

Today, Micah and Madilyn are doing exceptionally well. Micah no longer needs supplemental oxygen and they are two and a half years old. Kristen and Ian are working to share their story in the hopes that others who share the experiences of being a preemie-parent will know they are not alone. "Any preemie birth will have a lot of ups and downs, a roller coaster ride," says Kristen. "It's important to know there are people who want to help and resources that are available." They work with March of Dimes hoping to encourage other parents to seek out those resources and take advantage of the help March of Dimes offers.

Every year, 15 million babies are born prematurely worldwide, and 1 million will die before their first birthday. Your gift helps the March of Dimes fund research, education, advocacy and programs that help more moms have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies.
 

The Signature Chefs Auction in Knoxville brings together top local chefs showcasing their culinary masterpieces, entertainment, a silent auction, and live auction featuring unique packages. For over 25 years, this event has raised significant donations for the March of Dimes while paying tribute to the culinary excellence of local chefs and caterers in East Tennessee. The event is supported by donors who enjoy fine dining, auctions, and entertainment. 

To purchase individual tickets or tables contact Jennifer Noell 865-606-5992