World Immunization week is April 24th to the 30th and the non-profit organization Shot @ Life is celebrating their first birthday today! I first learned about Shot @ Life at Blissdom last month and immediately fell in love with their mission. Shot @ Life is dedicated to helping children worldwide obtain life saving vaccines.
Did you know that a child dies every 20 seconds from a disease that could be prevented with a vaccine?
Did you know that 1 in 5 children lack access to the life saving immunizations that keep children healthy?
Did you know that pneumonia and diarrhea account for more than one-third of childhood deaths worldwide?
Do these statistics break your mama heart as much as they do mine? Just mind blowing!!
I am very excited to begin the process of becoming a Shot @ Life Champion and am thankful for discovering this fantastic organization. In celebration of Shot @ Life’s first birthday, I would like to introduce you to a Shot @ Life Champion, Maria Smith. I had the chance to interview Maria about her experience with Shot @ Life.
What’s your favorite part about being a Champion?
I like being part of something that is bigger than myself. In my everyday “mom” life I spend my days wiping bottoms, cleaning up spilled juice, and negotiating nap times. Shot@Life keeps me connected and working toward a goal to make a difference in this world.
What are some things you have learned along the way?
I have learned so much since my first training a year ago. From the stats and figures regarding the lack of access to immunizations in developing countries to learning how to connect politically with my representatives. I have so much more to learn too!
How did you hear about Shot@Life?
I was first introduced to Shot@Life by my moms group, Mocha Moms Inc. Mocha Moms had teamed up with Shot@Life to help get the word out about the organization. I was present at one of the first meetings of champions in Atlanta prior to the launch!
Why did you get involved?
I got involved because I am always looking for opportunities to give back in a way that’s conducive to my lifestyle. I don’t want to just sign up for something but not be able to participate because I have small children. Shot@life takes you as you are and gives everyone opportunities to help.
What have you done over the past year to help spread the word about Shot@Life and the importance of expanding access to global vaccines?
I’ve helped with three Shot@Life fundraisers within Mocha Moms and each time took the opportunity to talk about what Shot@Life is and who it helps. I attended a champions summit as well as the launch in 2012 and have used my social media outreach to help spread the word. I had my 4th baby last year so I have been a little limited in what I’ve been able to do. I wish I could have done more to tell you the truth.
What’s your favorite birthday tradition?
One thing that must be present on everybody’s birthday is a cake. There needs to be a cake and candles and singing the birthday song. Birthdays are a big deal and they need to be celebrated. It doesn’t have to be a huge deal, but each person needs to feel special that day.
What milestones did you experience with Shot@Life during their first year?
I had my 4th baby during Shot@Life’s first year! My oldest child turned 6 this year, the age many children who don’t get immunized won’t live to see.
You can find out more about Maria and her family at Mamalicious Maria, where she writes about food, fun, fashion and finds for moms and men who love them. You can also connect with her through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram .
Visit Shot @ Life to find out how you can help advocate to help children in need of vital vaccinations.
{ 2 comments }
