My journey to founding Midwives Save Lives began more than 25 years ago on my first trip to Africa. I fell in love with the vibrant culture, the breathtaking landscape and wildlife, but most of all, with the people. At 17 years old, I didn’t know what the future held, but I knew Africa would always be part of my story.

Years later, through the compassionate, skilled care I received from midwives during the births of my three children, I realized how deeply a healthcare provider can shape a mother’s experience during one of life’s most vulnerable moments. As my children grew, the opportunity finally arose for me to work in Africa again. My graduate research brought me to Malawi as a partner with an NGO supporting orphaned children and very ill postpartum women.

This time, I saw Africa through a different lens. I was struck by the stark difference the women in rural villages in Malawi experienced during their pregnancies compared to my own experience. In just a couple of weeks, I met dozens of babies who had lost their mothers during or shortly after childbirth. Some mothers died from severe bleeding. Others faced complications worsened by severe nutrient deficiencies, lack of prenatal care, delayed transportation, or limited access to emergency care. Most of the complications were preventable.

One story has stayed with me. A complication that was quickly recognized and treated during the birth of one of my own children—with the support of a skilled midwife and routine medication—claimed the life of another mother in rural Malawi. I held her 3-day-old baby boy in my arms, knowing his life would never be the same.  It was a heartbreaking reminder that access to the right care at the right time can mean the difference between life and death.

I founded Midwives Save Lives to help close the gaps that continue to place mothers living far from care at greater risk during pregnancy and childbirth.

For every scholarship awarded, every expectant mother reached, and every woman who receives life-saving care in time, we move one step closer to changing that reality.

Because no mother should lose her life simply because of where she lives.

I invite you to join us as we work toward a future where every mother has the opportunity to watch her child grow.