On July 30th, 2009, Avery John Rauen left to be with the angels in the UNC Butterfly garden from his parents, Jared and Meghan's arms. His beloved family and amazing medical team looked on. He had fought heroically for 107 days against gastroschisis and his life has provided much unity, support and hope for a disease affecting many babies and many families all over the world.
We plan on honoring Avery and other gastroschsis survivors and victims every year on July 30th to raise awareness for the birth defect now affecting every 1 out of 2500 births in the US.
The event is to promote support and raise awareness of the members of your local community affected and how simple little gifts can mean so much.
There are events planned (location TBA) for the RDU area. They are listed below along with suggestions for events to promote, sponsor and put on in your area.
- Blood/Platelet/Plasma drive at area hospitals with NICU's (contact Meghan for NC area hospitals)
1 adult donation of plasma or blood saves 12 babies and gastroschisis babies require much during their surgeries.
- Please support the Ronald McDonald House by purchasing a Happy Meal or bringing your change in to a location or our planned potluck/picnic on the 30th.
The Ronald McDonald house provides access for parents to their children while they struggle through difficult diseases. However, they need your support! The houses tend to fill up quickly, while babies come in and have families who struggle to be by their side.
- On July 30th, Location TBA, at 5:30/6pm we will have a potluck/picnic.
Some food will be provided but please bring a dish to share.
- At 7pm we will do a butterfly release. (Suggested $2 donation to be part)
- At 8pm EST we're asking all families to light a candle or pause for a moment of silence to honor all survivors, victims, expecting parents and families enduring the journey.
You can also:
Promote and come up with a walk/marathon
Create a musical/family event
Promote your own blood/plasma drive at the hospital where your child was
Restaurant Promotional Event
If you would like to donate, get involved, volunteer your time or need help with suggestions please email us at meghanhall@averysangels.org
11,000 babies born today, 4.4 were born with gastroschisis. Let's do something about this. Let's take a moment to honor those families.
We hope you'll join us in our celebrations or have your own all over the world!
Love and blessings
Avery's Angels
