This video about reproductive health – there’s a maternal death every minute – has been launched by the White Ribbon Alliance on the occasion of the G8 meetings in Italy. Lucinda Marshall, Director of the Feminist Peace Network, is spot-on when she calls it “an elegant presentation.” I found this riveting and beautifully done.
But for being in a Boston, USA hospital, I would have been one of those women who bleeds out at childbirth. I am so keenly aware of this. Childbirth for me was empowering and joyful, yet humbling and searing. I will never be the same again, physically or psychologically. I chose not to have more children because of the experience, which to this day (12 years on) I find difficult to think about. My heart is beating fast and furious as I write this. I have a lump in my throat, watching the beautiful presentation.
But I am so lucky! I live in a world hub of medical services; my husband was there with me, supporting me, helping me make good decisions for my health and that of our baby; I survived. My son was born and remains healthy.
And I'm scarred, and I'm joyful and grateful for the gift of my son. And I weep for the women who die; or lose a child; or have no choice but to continue to have more children, no matter the consequences.
They need a voice. They need leaders to take action. They need global financing for better access to health services. They need unselfish, loving, caring men in their lives. They need cultural change. They need us!
Posted by: Gema Gray | 11 July 2009 at 08:40