Family Finds Strength To Go On After Loss Following Premature Birth

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - For so many families, the premature birth of twins often means the loss of one child. One family credits the March of Dimes for helping them keep living.

After years of trying, Briana and Matthew Tortoso were finally pregnant last year with twins.

But early in Briana's pregnancy, complication arose, and the boys were born at just 28 weeks.

"I mean, you're kind of just bounced around from in the NICU with your one son who is doing well and the transitional nursery with another son that was extremely sick," Matthew told WCBS 880's Marla Diamond. "You can't explain it unless you're there. I can't even explain and I've been there. It's just awful."

Andrew Joseph Tortoso's tiny body could not fight off an infection he acquired in utero, and he died.

"They were actually using Andrew's diagnosis to cure Briana," Matthew said.

The couple is now sharing their story through the March of Dimes, in an effort to help others.

"I know way too much, unfortunately," Briana said. "I think it's important to let other mothers know that there is a support... I think the March of Dimes is an organization where you can find somebody that you might be able to talk to or turn to."

Their surviving son, John Carlo, spent 77 days in the NICU, but now he is 9-months-old, weighs 20 pounds, and thriving.

Remember the March of Dimes' March for Babies is this Sunday in Manhattan. You can join WCBS 880′s Pat Farnack and CBS2′s John Elliott. Click HERE for more information.

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