Stephen Glass

The United States continues to face a maternal and infant health crisis. Among developed nations, we rank near the bottom in maternal mortality. More than 700 women die each year from pregnancy related causes, and public health data indicate that the majority of these deaths are preventable.

The crisis is not evenly distributed.

Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than white women. They experience higher rates of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and other complications. Black infants are significantly more likely to be born prematurely and to die before their first birthday.

These disparities are not explained by income or education alone. Research consistently shows that structural inequities, chronic stress linked to racism, unequal access to high quality care, and documented bias within health systems contribute directly to these outcomes.

This is a public health issue. It is also a moral issue.

March of Dimes works at multiple levels. They fund research to prevent premature birth. They advocate for policies that expand access to care. They support programs that strengthen maternal health before, during, and after pregnancy. Their work is focused on measurable change, particularly for communities that have historically been underserved.

I joined March for Babies because every child deserves a healthy start and every mother deserves safe, respectful care. As I approach my birthday, I am committing to raise $2,500 to support this work.

This is about prevention. It is about equity. It is about protecting families at the very beginning of life.

I invite you to stand with me. Please visit my fundraising page and make a contribution. Together, we can help ensure that every mom and every baby has the strongest possible start.

Respectfully,

Stephen