Debra Pascali-Bonaro is amazing. Chair of the International MotherBaby Childbirth Organization (IMBCO), Debra's magnetism and enthusiasm precede her upon entering a room.

Here at the Lamaze 2011 conference, we just had the opportunity to spend the last 90 minutes hearing Debra talk about the IMBCO, and its international project, the International MotherBaby Childbirth Initiative, including the 10 Steps to becoming motherbaby friendly and what's happening at the eight demonstration sites around the world.

Here are some of my favorite quotes from Debra's presentation:

'Step number one in the 10 Steps to Optimal MotherBaby Maternity Services: Treat every mother with respect and dignity... the step that every organization within the IMBCO automatically agreed upon.'

'Here in the U.S., one to three women lose their lives ever day from preventable [maternity care-related] causes.'

'We need more midwives.'

'When you're in labor, that's not really an education moment.'

'Hair salons are great, teachable moments!'

'We need to teach everywhere we are.'

'When you write mother-baby, write them as one word [MotherBaby]. Let's not separate them on paper, or anywhere else!'

'115 Baby Friendly hospitals in the entire U.S. as of August 30.'

Statement on a placard at the entrance of the IMBCI demo site in Brazil: 'There are no patients here. Only people.'

'People that dance together, share a special relationship.'

'Our[demo] sites are really starting to learn from each other.'

'We need to get up & stand up for our rights!' [spoken with Bob Marley's Get Up Stand Up)

To find out about MotherBaby networks, and how you or your organization can become involved, go here.

Thank you, Debra, for your passion, drive and leadership!

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