May 1 walk to benefit babies in the NICU
MJ's Memories will benefit from a 2-mile walk held on Sunday, May 1. MJ's Memories helps families with a baby in the intensive care units by providing care packages and memory boxes to them.
MJ's Memories is part of Project Sweet Peas, a nationwide network of parents who strive to provide comfort to families who have children in the intensive care unit by providing care packages. They understand the stress of having child who has spent time in an intensive care unit or who has passed away. The care packages contain items to aid in furthering the bond between parent and child and offers wellness items for parents.
They also aim to make treasured memories for parents who have lost a child in the intensive care unit. MJ's Memories started after Michael Joseph 'MJ' Skaggs passed away at the age of 35 days. He lived his entire life in the neonatal intensive care unit, and his family understands the struggles that parents in the NICU face.
MJ's Memories donates care packages and memory boxes to families with a baby in the intensive care units through hospitals and by sending them out in the mail. If you know a family in the NICU who could benefit from a care package or memory box, please contact Megan Skaggs through email at megan@projectsweetpeas.com
The 2-mile walk will be held at Century Park Boat Shelter in Vernon Hills.
Participants can join the walk on May 1 or they can "Walk in Spirit."
There is a $20 fee for pre-registered walkers and "Walk in Spirit" participants that includes a T-shirt, 5 raffle tickets, and a balloon to release.
"Walk in Spirit" participants will have their personalized message written on the balloon released for them and a picture taken will be sent to them. Pre-registered walkers and "Walk in Spirit" participants must be registered by Wednesday, April 20.
Walkers can register the day of for $25 which includes 5 raffle tickets, a balloon to release, and a T-shirt (if available).
Mike and Kathy McEvilly are hosting this event. Mike and Kathy are MJ's grandparents.
For more information on the walk or to register, please go to projectsweetpeas.com/MJswalk.aspx or contact project leader, Megan Skaggs at Megan@projectsweetpeas.com or Mike and Kathy McEvilly at michaelm3890@sbcglobal.net.