SPOTSWOOD–Teaming up with the borough’s men in blue, Resident Marylin Israel and the Spotswood Police Department will hold a “Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness” walk on April 18.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) is a birth defect that occurs during fetal development causing a hole in an infant’s diaphragm, this ultimately allows the organs to crown the abdomen leaving limited room for the lungs to grow. About 1,600 babies are born with CDH every year in the U.S. but only 800 survive, according to Israel.
“I am hosting the walk with the Spotswood Police Department on April 18 to raise awareness for CDH because the police department has always been a pillar of the community,” Israel said. “They are all about giving back to the community by hosting fundraisers and other events. They are always willing to support families and bring the community together.”
Israel said she personally considers members of the police department like my friends and that she is honored and grateful to partner with the police to hold this walk for her grandson Asher.
“My grandson was diagnosed with CDH during a 20-week ultrasound. After five long months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He [has since] returned home and he is a true blessing and a warrior.”
Israel said Asher is seven months now and doing well.
“CDH is a devastating and complex birth defect, not a lot of people are aware of it,” Israel said.
The walk will begin from Immaculate Conception’s parking lot, in Spotswood to the Maple Street Pavilion in Helmetta where there will be refreshments and food.,Walk starts at 10 Am.
“The ribbon color for CDH is pink blue, yellow and white. I would like the participants to wear either color to show support to our miracle and survivor,” Israel said.
All proceeds from the walk, Israel said will go to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Residents can also donate the day of the walk, Israel said by giving cash or checks made to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
With a goal to raise $5,000, Israel said by donating residents will help save babies’ lives and help the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia make lifesaving breakthroughs in pediatric research.
“Donate for a great cause give the gift of hope for CDH for a better tomorrow,” Israel said.
By collaborating with members from the police department, Israel said, “They are caring, compassionate [and are] always eager to help families in town. I will always be grateful and thankful to them.”
If residents wish to donate the day of the walk, Israel said residents can give cash or give a check made out to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Contact Vashti Harris at vharris@newspapermediagroup.com.
