BILLINGS - Premature birth is the number one cause of death among newborns. For almost 70 years, March of Dimes researchers have been fighting to save the lives of preemies.
The Mauro family moved to Laurel two years ago from Texas. Their 3½-year-old-son Seth is like any other little one his age; swinging on his swing set puts a smile on his face, and a ride down the slide is the best of times. However, as he plays on his swing set, you would never know that the hardships he has endured during his short time here in earth.
"Seth was born 3½ months premature, and he was one pound, ten ounces and 13 inches long," described his mom Susan. "They didn't give him much chance, they gave him about a 40% chance of survival and with that 40% chance there was a 60% chance that he would have massive problems." Susan credits the drug Surfactant, which was discovered through March of Dimes research, for keeping baby Seth alive. The drug helped his tiny, underdeveloped lungs contract and expand. The Mauro's are this year's Montana family ambassador for the March of Dimes.
"The nurses gave him the nickname "little champ", and I think that's just so true," said Susan. "You know, physically he's pretty caught-up to what he should be. He does have blindness. So, he had 15 different eye surgeries before he was a year old. He didn't walk until he was about two years old and he didn't speak until about a year ago, he started making sounds, six months ago he started talking and now he just won't be quiet!"
Especially if you get him talking about his most favorite thing in the whole wide-world, the movie Cars. One peek into his Cars-inspired bedroom says it all. He also loves to read his favorite book, of course Cars-themed.
"He's just, just a miracle that's the only word I can use for him and he just brings so much joy into our lives and everyone he meets."
Seth will be leading the pack for, Team Seth, Saturday for the March of Dimes walk-a-thon at Pioneer Park. Susan said everyone is welcome to join them.
Also, if you want more information on Seth, you can visit his website at www.sethmichaelmauro.aboutmybaby.com.