Having healthcare – including mental health services – would have helped Keshia and her children get through some tough times.

“Having a baby is traumatic and life-changing,” says Keshia. “Many mothers suffer in silence with postpartum depression and other chronic health issues.”

Although Medicaid covered her healthcare needs during pregnancy, it got cut off two months after giving birth. Keshia had to leave Florida to get the help and support she needed, including childcare that would allow her to work or go back to school.

“Having a baby is traumatic and life-changing,” says Keshia. “Many mothers suffer in silence with postpartum depression and other chronic health issues.”

Fortunately, for other new mothers, Florida has now extended Medicaid postpartum to one year after giving birth.  Led by Florida Health Justice Project, healthcare advocates pushed for the change to help young mothers like Keshia stay healthy. This extension will not only improve maternal health, but will also help to assure the safety and health of their children.

“Self-care is not selfish,” Keshia says. “If I’m not my best, I can’t care for my children.”

Keshia is inspired to help other young mothers avoid the trauma she endured, and wants to become a doula to provide support and guidance to pregnant people during labor. She says she plans to make it her life goal to advocate for all mothers to make sure their postpartum needs are met.