Christy Turlington Burns, renowned supermodel and founder of Every Mother Counts, a nonprofit dedicated to improving maternity care globally, reflects on the persistent challenges facing expectant mothers despite decades of advocacy and legislative efforts.
In a recent interview for Harper’s Bazaar’s May 2024 cover story, Turlington Burns underscores the ongoing struggle to safeguard maternal health, a cause she championed following her own experience with birth complications in 2003. Despite significant strides in raising awareness and enacting legislation, Turlington Burns acknowledges that achieving true maternal health equity remains elusive.
The supermodel’s dedication to this cause is further fueled by her 20-year-old daughter, Grace, whom she shares with actor husband Ed Burns. Turlington Burns expresses her hope that by the time her daughter contemplates motherhood, maternal health issues will be rare occurrences rather than commonplace challenges.
However, the reality paints a starkly different picture. Maternal mortality rates in the United States have surged over the past two decades, disproportionately impacting Black and Native American mothers. Experts estimate that maternal deaths have doubled since 1999, highlighting systemic inequalities in access to quality healthcare.
As the specter of another Trump presidency looms with the upcoming election, Turlington Burns remains steadfast in her commitment to maternal health advocacy. She acknowledges the potential setbacks in reproductive rights but remains optimistic, citing historical precedent for increased activism during tumultuous times.
While Turlington Burns continues to occasionally take on modeling assignments, she views her work with Every Mother Counts as her primary focus. Despite forgoing a salary at the nonprofit, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing maternal health initiatives over personal gain, reaffirming her unwavering dedication to the cause.
In conclusion, Turlington Burns’s unwavering determination serves as a beacon of hope in the ongoing struggle to address maternal health disparities. While challenges persist, her tireless advocacy and commitment to Every Mother Counts inspire continued efforts to ensure every mother receives the care and support they deserve.
