I walk for awareness because I had no idea postpartum preeclampsia was even possible.

After my baby girl Merrick was born, I thought we were in the clear. We came home, adjusting to life with a newborn, and then everything changed. We got COVID, and not long after, I ended up back in the hospital with severe postpartum preeclampsia. It was one of the scariest times of my life, and honestly, parts of it still feel like a blur. But I'm one of the lucky ones.

What saved me were two things I will never take for granted. First, a headache that felt different from anything I had ever experienced, and trusting my gut that something was not right. Second, an at home blood pressure monitor that confirmed my numbers were dangerously high.

Before this happened, I thought preeclampsia was only something you had to worry about during pregnancy. I had never been told it could happen after delivery. So many women are just like I was, unaware of the warning signs and the risks once they leave the hospital.

I walk to help change that.

Postpartum preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are rising, and awareness can truly save lives. I am beyond grateful to be here, to be Merrick’s mom, and to have the chance to use my story to help another family recognize the signs sooner.

I walk in support of the incredible work being done by the Preeclampsia Foundation and to make sure more mothers know to trust their instincts, check their blood pressure, and seek help when something feels off.

If sharing this helps even one woman get care faster, it is worth it.