Overall Reaction

I was deeply moved by the documentary Aftershock. It is a powerful and important film that sheds light on the maternal mortality crisis in the United States, particularly among Black women. The film tells the stories of two families who lost their loved ones to childbirth complications, and it follows their journey as they advocate for change.

Fairness and Balance

I believe that Aftershock is a fair and balanced dive into the issue of maternal mortality. The film presents a variety of perspectives, from healthcare providers to policymakers to bereaved families. It also acknowledges that there is no single solution to the problem, and that there are many factors that contribute to maternal mortality, including racism, poverty, and lack of access to quality healthcare.

Racial Stereotypes

The documentary directly and indirectly addresses racial stereotypes in a number of ways. For example, it highlights the fact that Black women are three times more likely to die from childbirth complications than white women. It also shows how Black women are more likely to be dismissed by healthcare providers and to receive lower quality care.

One scene in the film that particularly stuck with me was when Shamony Gibson’s mother, Shawnee Benton Gibson, was asked by a medical professional if she was “on drugs.” This question is often asked to Black women in childbirth, even when there is no medical reason to suspect drug use. It is a reflection of the racist stereotypes about Black women that are prevalent in our society.

Shamony

Signs and Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

Shamony Gibson had a number of signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (PE), including:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heart rate
• Coughing up blood
• Leg swelling

Why Did Medical Personnel Ask if She Was “On Drugs”?

Medical personnel may ask Black women in childbirth if they are “on drugs” for a number of reasons. Some healthcare providers may hold racist stereotypes about Black women and believe that they are more likely to use drugs. Others may be unfamiliar with the signs and symptoms of PE in Black women, and may mistake them for the signs and symptoms of drug use.

Could Her Death Have Been Prevented?

Yes, I believe that Shamony’s death could have been prevented. If she had received more timely and appropriate care, her PE may have been diagnosed and treated earlier. However, it is important to note that the maternal mortality crisis in the United States is a complex problem, and there is no single solution. There are many factors that contribute to maternal mortality, including racism, poverty, and lack of access to quality healthcare.

Conclusion

Aftershock is a powerful and important documentary that sheds light on the maternal mortality crisis in the United States, particularly among Black women. It is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in learning more about this issue and in advocating for change.