SAVING MOM

COLUMBIA – South Carolina ETV (SCETV) announces the return of Palmetto Perspectives with a powerful new episode “Saving Mom” airing live on ETV-HD on March 20 from 7 – 8 p.m. Viewers can also watch the broadcast live on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook page. Palmetto Perspectives is a community affairs program dedicated to tackling the pressing issues facing South Carolina and its communities. This upcoming installment will address the urgent topic of maternal health — a crisis that has placed South Carolina eighth highest in the nation for maternal mortality.

Recent data reveals that nearly 95 percent of all maternal deaths in the state could have been prevented. South Carolina has consistently received an F rating from the March of Dimes due to its high preterm birth rate. The “Saving Mom” episode will gather mothers, healthcare professionals and policymakers to discuss the complex factors impacting maternal health, from pregnancy complications to postpartum care and highlight available resources and innovations aimed at reversing these alarming trends.

The episode will feature a live studio audience and a panel discussion led by Palmetto Perspectives host Thelisha Eaddy, the local Morning Edition host for SC Public Radio. Eaddy has been a trusted voice in South Carolina’s media landscape since joining SC Public Radio in 2015, covering key issues such as disaster recovery and public health.

Panelists include:

Dr. Lisa Waddell, MD, MPH, FACPM — Former Chief Medical Officer for the CDC Foundation and CEO of LFW Public Health Connections LLC. Dr. Waddell brings a wealth of experience in public health leadership and community-based initiatives.

Maya Pack, MS, MPA — Executive Director of the South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health. Pack has worked for over two decades to advance healthcare access and policy in South Carolina.

Rhonda Sims — Program Manager for MoMMA’s Voices and Founder of the Black Maternal Health Collective. Sims is a passionate maternal health advocate, leveraging personal experience to drive policy change and community support.

Representative Sylleste Davis — Chairman of the House Medical, Military, Public and Municipal Affairs Committee, representing District 100 in Berkeley County. Davis plays a key role in shaping health policy and legislative efforts to combat maternal mortality.

Palmetto Perspectives aims to amplify conversations happening in local communities across South Carolina. With “Saving Mom,” the program aims to shed light on the life-threatening challenges some mothers face during pregnancy, labor and postpartum, while also showcasing the promising programs and technology being developed to support healthier outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Members of the public are invited to join the live studio audience for this important discussion. Registration is required and can be completed online.

QUOTES

“Palmetto Perspectives continues to be a space where South Carolinians can engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that impact their lives. 'Saving Mom' shines a light on maternal health, and we are proud to bring this important dialogue to our viewers.”

–SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell

"We’re committed to tackling the tough issues that matter most to our viewers. Maternal health is an important topic for our communities. This episode will not only highlight the challenges but also share solutions and hope.” –Palmetto Perspectives Producer Leroy Green

“Palmetto Perspectives is about giving a voice to the community, and 'Saving Mom' does just that. I’m honored to moderate this important discussion and bring together mothers, healthcare professionals and policymakers to find ways to protect and support South Carolina’s mothers and babies.” –Palmetto Perspectives Host Thelisha Eaddy

FAST FACTS

• Palmetto Perspectives “Saving Mom” airs live on ETV-HD on March 20 from 7–8 p.m., featuring a live studio audience and a panel of maternal health experts and advocates.
• Nearly 95 percent of maternal deaths in South Carolina are preventable, according to recent data.
• Members of the public are invited to join the live studio audience for this important discussion. Registration is required and can be completed online.
• Viewers can also watch the broadcast live on the SCETV website, YouTube channel or Facebook page.

About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio

South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Somewhere South, Yoga in Practice, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.