During the month of November, I wear the color purple as much as I can. Around the world, different cities will light up well-known buildings with the color purple. And I ask YOU, at some point, or for World Prematurity Day which is Tuesday, November 17, 2015, to please wear purple.
Why Purple?
To help promote World Prematurity Awareness Month. This is an awareness that still does not get enough support despite the fact that prematurity is the leading killer of newborns in America. According to March of Dimes: 1 in 10 babies are born too soon in the U.S. For more information: 10 Reasons Why Prematurity Month Matters.
Prematurity/Preterm is defined as babies born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed. Sub-categories of preterm birth, based on gestational age:
extremely preterm (28 weeks)
very preterm (28 to 32 weeks)
moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks)
In 2011 the March of Dimes Fight For Babies Campaign spanned globally for the very first World Prematurity Day. For the launch of this campaign they wanted a new color that would be easily recognized as the color of prematurity awareness.
Before 2011, a pink and blue ribbon was used in association with prematurity and infant mortality. March of Dimes chose purple, preemie purple, to help make a new statement for a very important awareness.
So now:
Purple Ribbon = Premature Birth Awareness
Pink and Blue Ribbon = Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Additionally, every state in the U.S. and many countries throughout the world have local events that might meet your interest, help you get involved in how to help babies and families in your community as well as raise funds to support local prematurity programs.
To find out more: In Texas, throughout the U.S., throughout the United Kingdom. If you know of others, please share with us so we can add to this list, thank you!
Will you wear the color purple this month? Do you have tips or a story to share to help support prematurity awareness? If so, we would love to hear from you and share your words.
If you would like to add purple to your facebook or twitter image, click here!! 
