On a recent episode of The Surrogacy Space podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Tenesha Advent, Director of Maternal and Child Health at March of Dimes. Our conversation was both enlightening and inspiring, as we explored the organization’s evolution and its unwavering commitment to improving outcomes for mothers and babies across the country.
March of Dimes has come a long way since its founding to combat polio. Today, its mission centers on preventing birth defects, premature births, and infant mortality. Tenesha shared powerful insights into the challenges facing maternal and infant health, including rising rates of maternal mortality and disparities in care—particularly in underserved communities. These issues are deeply personal to many families, and March of Dimes is working tirelessly to address them through advocacy, education, and community-based programs.
One initiative that stood out to me was the NICU Family Support Program. Having volunteered in a NICU myself, I understand how critical it is to provide emotional and educational support to families during such a vulnerable time. It’s important to look for resources and peer connections that can make a real difference in these moments.
We explored the need for inclusive and accessible maternal healthcare, especially for surrogates and intended parents who often face unique hurdles when navigating the medical system. Tenesha also highlighted the Compass app, a free tool available on Android and Apple devices, which offers guidance for every stage of the pregnancy journey, from preconception to postpartum. It’s an incredible resource for families navigating the complexities of maternal health.
We also discussed how the community can get involved. Whether it’s participating in March for Babies walks in South Florida, attending events like Women of Distinction or Signature Chefs, or simply signing up for alerts, there are many ways to support this vital work. These efforts help ensure that maternal health remains a priority for all families—regardless of race, income, or how they came together.
