In 1982, John Bricker of Harrisburg lost his son Greg to a heart defect. The pain of losing a child is something that still lingers more than 40 years later. However, instead of letting this tragedy consume him, John has dedicated the last 50 years of his life to walking for the March of Dimes and raising funds to support families facing maternal and infant health challenges.
The March for Babies event is one of the country’s oldest charitable walks, with a mission to raise funds for research, programs, and education that provide mothers and babies with a healthy start. According to the organization’s annual report, the preterm birth rate in the U.S. is over 10%, earning a poor grade. Pennsylvania fares slightly better, with a C+ grade in this area. However, the U.S also faces a high rate of maternal mortality, making it one of the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth.
Despite his personal loss, John Bricker has become an inspiration for many families across the nation with his commitment to helping others and preventing similar tragedies from occurring again. During the event, he was honored with the first ‘John Bricker Legacy Award,’ recognizing his efforts towards improving maternal and infant health outcomes in America.
John Bricker’s dedication to the March of Dimes and its cause continues to be a driving force in his life as he advocates for better maternal and infant health outcomes for all families across America
