Having a baby should be a time of great joy and hope. I’m so thankful the births of both of my children went as planned, though there was potential for medical emergencies with both. Fortunately, my babies were healthy and we received excellent healthcare.
Every year across the globe, 287,000 women die during pregnancy and childbirth. That’s one mother dying every 2 minutes—800 women each day.
I can’t imagine my children growing up without me. I’ve watched other children grow up without their mothers and it’s absolutely heartbreaking.
Another 7-10 million women and girls are afflicted with severe or long lasting illness caused by complications during pregnancy and childbirth. These mothers do not need to suffer and die; most of these lives can be saved easily and inexpensively.
This month Maternity Worldwide is promoting Save A Life This Christmas, an alternative Christmas gift individuals can give to support safer births and emergency deliveries for mothers in sub Saharan Africa through making donations of $24 and $81.
Over the last 10 years, Maternity Worldwide has been actively involved in saving lives in childbirth in eleven developing countries by setting up and running innovative, integrated maternal health programs:
- Providing communities with information on maternal health and family planning
- Empowering women by providing opportunities for them to set up their own businesses
- Improving access to health centers and hospitals
- Training local midwives and doctors to assit with providing safe births
- Providing equipment and resources needed so hospitals and health centers can assit women in giving birth safely
If you’re interested in learning more about this charitable cause, visit Maternity Worldwide’ website here.
Merry Christmas!
