This afternoon I participated in a press conference call hosted by Americans United for Change, featuring a group of people all supporting bills within the Advancing America's Priorities Act. Speakers included:

On behalf of BlogHer, I am pleased to announce that I will soon be interviewing Valerie Plame Wilson about her experience with postpartum depression.  We are very fortunate that she was willing to share her story so openly in her new book "Fair Game", in which she dedicates a chapter to the birth of her twins in 2000 and her ensuing struggle with PPD.  This interview is part of BlogHers Act's focus on maternal health in 2007 and 2008, as we continue to join Postpartum Support International in urging Congress to pass the MOTHERS Act for postpartum depression education, research and treatment. BlogHer readers, while we're getting ready for this exciting upcoming event, we'd like to ask for your help!  What questions would you like to ask Valerie with regard to her postpartum experience?  Please post your questions in the comment section as soon as possible so that we have them for the interview.  Thanks!

This week, the offices of Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Congressman Bobby L. Rush (D-IL) announced they are finalizing the new federal postpartum depression legislation for its anticipated victory in the U.S.

We're doing great so far, but I hope more of you will take the time to join us. I've heard from women who say today is the first day they've ever spoken up about this issue. What an amazing day! Here's the list of participants I have so far. Please join this list of fabulous women (and a few men):

Today is Blog for the MOTHERS Act Day, sponsored by Postpartum Progress, BlogHer and Postpartum Support International!  Ladies, please get blogging!!  Your actions today will make a difference in the lives of all the new mothers created each and every day in America. The truth is that our country is more than capable of treating more women more quickly and more effectively when it comes to postpartum mood disorders.  We can do it.  We just don't.  All it takes is will.  A willingness among healthcare providers to further educate themselves and to screen for these illnesses.  A willingness among insurers to help cover costs.  A willingness among all those involved with childbirth education to lay out the truth.

A beautiful young mother of two has been missing in Rhode Island now for more than a month.