I am a two-time surivor of postpartum preeclampsia.
In 2022, I was readmitted to the hospital four days postpartum with my first child. My blood pressure was 184/107, and my AST levels were measuring just outside of the normal range, indicating my liver function was declining.
Just as the nurses were starting a catheter and magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures, my legs started shaking uncontrollably and my vision started fading. I cried, "what is happening to me" and looked in terror at my husband holding our newborn as the nurses worked quickly to stop the seizure. The "mag" kicked in, a wave of fire washed through my body, and I was safe.
When I returned home three days later, I found the Preeclampsia Foundation after searching desperately for answers as to what happened to me.
I learned that preeclampsia is the most common life threatening pregnancy related disorder, and can occur up to six weeks postpartum.
If my husband, who is a registered nurse, would not have gotten me to the hospital when he did, l could have died.
I survived postpartum preeclampsia a second time after my second was born in 2023 and I've been using these experiences to spread awareness and advocacy ever since.
I am also a NICU parent, as my daughter spent 10 days in the NICU due to thrombocytopenia (low platelets) and high white blood cells, which is commonly linked to preeclampsia. However, the underlying cause for her case was undetermined.
Due to these experiences, I had to overcome post traumatic stress symptoms. I also live with Rheumatoid Arthritis, which was diagnosed after my second child was born, and Idiopathic Hypersomnia (Excessive Daytime Fatigue). I have to wonder if enduring the trauma caused my body to react in big ways.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Michigan, I became passionate about working with people who have experienced maternal mental health related issues.
I believe that since I went through these experiences, I am positioned perfectly to use my voice to bring more awareness toward preeclampsia, which ultimately led to taking the role as the Walk Chair for the first Flint, MI Promise Walk for Preeclampsia.
