Immediately following the birth of my second child, I developed peripartum cardiomyopathy (congestive heart failure related to pregnancy). I required intubation and care in the ICU for several days. I spent a week at the Minneapolis Heart Institute before being released for a long rehabilitation. The cost of care was over $100,000.

Because of my excellent health insurance, we paid only $900. I fully recovered but was told that if I were to have another child, the condition would likely return and be fatal. I did not intend to have additional children, so emotionally, this was not a shock to me. However, this knowledge has deepened my resolve that all women must have agency over their own reproductive health.

Although my partner and I have taken measures to prevent a future pregnancy, should I become unexpectedly pregnant, I demand the right to choose for my family that my health and my ability to care for my two young children must be protected.