We are officially kicking off our Storytelling Campaign! Our goal: 100 stories and 1000 dollars.
When we share our experiences through stories we teach ourselves and others the meaning of those experiences. So often, maternal stories are kept between people -- we may only tell a few friends, spouses, family, even some strangers. But it is clear that so many of us still have questions, still feel alone and disconnected in our experiences. Maternal Spotlight is seeking to collect 100 stories because we believe that your unique story can be a lesson to others.
As maternal health researchers we also recognize that the data we have access to does not fully capture the lived maternal experiences that many of us have throughout our lives. If changes are to be made in our communities, our health care system, and to the social narrative around maternal experiences we need to share individual and community stories to identify where problems and challenges exist.
We are also seeking to raise $1000 to support our microgrant program which funds local community organizations solving problems in women’s lives. Your contribution could support postpartum scholarships for BIPOC women, resources for caregivers of adult parents or children with special-health care needs, providing support to parents who have lost children, and much more.
Interested in sharing your story?
Why share your story?
Think about your maternal experience. How often did you depend on the stories of others to understand and come to terms with your own experience? By sharing your story, you’ll help someone else understand their experience, answer their questions, and connect to others. Sharing our stories shines a spotlight on the pieces missing from the mainstream narrative around maternal health - from media coverage to the data we collect as scientists.
Ready to share? Submit your story in the form below. Please note we appreciate all information you are willing to share, but all identifying information is optional.