This is a deeply personal and urgent plea. On November 12th, 2024, I lost my beloved younger sister Savanna Andrews (Hewitt) to postpartum depression which had escalated into severe psychosis and suicide ideation. She fought bravely for over a year, exhaustively utilizing every limited resource at her disposal. Even the day before her passing, she tried again to reach out for help. Despite her many efforts, she succumbed to her illness, leaving behind a void impossible to fill. Savanna was the most loving wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. It is her voice and legacy which drive this petition - I know my sister would wish that no other mother endures such pain and suffering, much of which was amplified by the clear scarcity of adequate help available here in Washington State. 

According to the American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. Furthermore, out of these women, 4% develop postpartum psychosis, an urgent mental health crisis. Despite these alarming numbers, suitable care options still remain severely limited for women battling these disorders. The main tools in these battles must be free to patient comprehensive facilities, providing both outpatient and inpatient services tailored specifically and solely for mothers grappling with serious postpartum and mental health issues. This type of patient care should never be dependent on their insurance coverage and/or their ability to afford out of pocket fees. 

Postpartum depression, postpartum psychosis, and other mental illnesses are a crisis not only in our local community but across the nation. The experience of my sister is far from an isolated event. Too many women are left waging this war without any support. The time is now to effect change, to create funding for these critically needed inpatient facilities, making them widely accessible to all mothers in need of their services.

In honor of my sister Savanna and all mothers who have suffered and/or are currently suffering silently in the shadow of mental illness, let's secure the necessary funding to establish these facilities. This isn't just a favor, this is our duty - to support our mothers, wives, sisters, and friends who tirelessly fulfill their roles despite their internal struggles. It's time to tell these women: You are not alone. We stand with you. You're worth fighting for.

Sign this petition today and help me ignite change for a better tomorrow for all mothers.