On Sunday 28th October families across Australia will walk together in support of the 48,000 premature or sick babies born in Australia every year[1].
Walk for Prems 2018 is proudly presented by Baby Bunting and is the largest annual fundraiser for the Life’s Little Treasures Foundation, Australia’s foremost charity dedicated to supporting the families of babies born sick or prior to 37 weeks gestation.
In its 9th year, Walk for Prems will take place simultaneously in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Canberra and Perth – as well as regional locations such as Cairns, Townsville, Ballarat, Goulburn Valley & Gippsland.
Life’s Little Treasures Foundation understands that it is not possible for everyone to attend a Walk for Prems location, so those who live far away or whose baby is still in hospital are still able to take part in Walk for Prems by registering as a Virtual Walk for Prems Team member.
“Premature birth is on the rise – now about 8% of births compared with 6% in the past. There are many reasons for this. They include increasing maternal age, more multiple pregnancies with assisted reproduction, higher rates of maternal diabetes and obesity to name a few. Being born premature (before 37 weeks) is a significant event for not only the baby or babies but also the family. Most families are not expecting or ready for a premature baby and thus many more families are needing the support that LLTF can provide. Prematurity can cause significant financial, emotional and psychological hardship to families and is associated with significant rates of stress and mental health issues for families particularly if they have no supports”.
Dr Simon Fraser, Chief Medical Officer & Senior Paediatrician, Latrobe Regional Hospital
Walk for Prems has raised over 1.4 million and this year Life’s Little Treasures Foundation hopes to raise $300,000.
Presenting Partner
Baby Bunting is the Walk for Prems 2018 presenting partner once again this year. A well-loved and well-known Australian retailer of baby goods for over 30 years, Life’s Little Treasures Foundation is proud of this exciting partnership and takes this opportunity to thank Baby Bunting for its support. Read more HERE
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[1] According to Hilder L, Zhichao Z, Parker M, Jahan S, Chambers GM 2014. Australia’s Mothers and Babies. Perinatal statistics series no. 30. Cat. no. PER 69. Canberra: AIHW.
