Pregnant women who are at risk for suffering complications and even death are in the prime of their lives. The most affected populations are minorities, Native Americans, immigrants, and women living in poverty and who speak little or no English.

After disasters, reproductive healthcare falls by the wayside. Yet babies continue to be born. When all infrastructure falls apart, when the hospitals and all their technological equipment are destroyed, midwives come in handy. They can help women give birth with or without electricity, running water, equipment - even shelter is optional. When babies are ready, they come.

I get happy very easily and very often.

Statistically, the United States rates number 39 in maternal mortality. This means that it is safer to be pregnant and to give birth in 38 other countries than the USA... and less expensive too.

Like my sister, 981 women die every day on Earth from pregnancy and birth-related complications.

The amazing heroic women in labor, they are the truest inspiration, and when they push their babies into the light... I am astonished every time.

Gentle birth, protecting mother and baby, is a solution that I believe will result in positive change for our society.