March of Dimes to host Lobby Day – May 1
April 22, 2019
On Wednesday, May 1, 2019 March of Dimes is hosting a Lobby Day at the South Carolina State House to bring awareness to World Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day and the maternal mortality crisis facing mothers in the state of South Carolina and across the nation.
“In South Carolina, and nationally, there are alarming rates of maternal mortality as well as preterm birth, birth complications and infant loss—which lead to monumental stress and mental hardship on mothers,” said Frankie Robertson, Regional Director of Advocacy and Government Affairs for March of Dimes. “The purpose of this lobby day is to educate our state’s leaders on the importance of strong maternal mental health and to advocate for passage of maternal mortality education.”
Lobby Day is an integral part of March of Dimes advocacy, and this year’s event is a key element of MOMentum Gretchen Carlson Advocacy Fellow Kate Marrow’s advocacy efforts. Morrow, of Columbia, SC, was one of 19 Fellows named to the inaugural cohort across the country.
“As the mother of twins born at 28 weeks who spent 76 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, followed by 220 days of home-bound medical isolation, I am honored to be a Gretchen Carlson Fellow and to help bring awareness to South Carolina legislators about the issues facing mothers like me,” said Kate Morrow. “It is critical that legislators understand the issues facing mothers and babies in South Carolina and the many resources available through the March of Dimes to help mothers and babies thrive. Additionally, I strongly believe that mothers whose mental health is supported are better able to care for some of the most critical babies.”
South Carolina Healthy Mother’s Day will be held on May 1, 2019 at the South Carolina State House. March of Dimes advocates and supporters are encouraged to attend a special proclamation signing by Gov. Henry McMaster in the first floor lobby at 11:30 a.m. Members of the media are encouraged to attend.
For more information, please visit: http://marchofdimes.org/
About March of Dimes
March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, lead programs and provide education and advocacy so that every baby can have the best possible start. Building on a successful 80-year legacy of impact and innovation, we empower every mom and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nace
