Christy Howe : Mother 's Day first pushed bringing sons home from war . She says we should use day to focus on health care for women in pregnancy and childbirth . According to the World Health Organization , the rate of women who died from pregnancy-related complications in the U.S. increased by nearly 50 % from 1980 to 2008 -- a statistic that suggests this issue is one of equitable resources and education , not a lack of technology or infrastructure . Each year 5 million women die from pregnancy and childbirth ; her group provides ways to help . Writer : 2008 , observe a Every Mother Counts ; '' mothers should `` disappear '' to point out problem .
Christy Howe : Mother 's Day first pushed bringing sons home from war . She says we should use day to focus on health care for women in pregnancy and childbirth . Each year 5 million women die from pregnancy and childbirth ; her group provides ways to help . Writer : 2008 , observe a Every Mother Counts ; '' mothers should `` disappear '' to point out problem .