Charles Johnson to Receive Carolyn Wetzel Continuum Award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECharles Johnson to Receive Carolyn Wetzel Continuum Award on MondayDublin, Georgia - October 20, 2017 - On Monday, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia ("HMHB") will present the 2017 Carolyn Wetzel Continuum Award to Charles Johnson, son of Judge Glenda Hatchett, for his work to address maternal mortality through policy change.After the sudden passing of his wife Kira due to complications following a routine scheduled C-section, Charles has dedicated his life mission to launching the 4Kira4Moms Foundation, a nonprofit committed to reducing the maternal mortality rate and raising awareness about the maternal death crisis in the United States where we have over 1200 women die annually."No one should have to experience what Charles and Kira experienced," says Pam Wilkes, Vice President of HMHB. "He has truly taken this tragic event as a time to do something so important for families across the country."Currently, 4Kira4Moms is working closely with congressional legislators to create healthcare policies nationwide that will protect mothers and babies."We are so pleased to honor Charles Johnson for sharing his story with those who have the power to make real change," says Elise Blasingame, executive director of HMHB. "This award is about recognizing those who use their sphere of influence to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in Georgia, and Charles is a shining example of that."According to the most recent data, Georgia ranks 49th in the nation for maternal mortality."I am so tremendously honored to receive this award, and to be asked to share my wife Kira's story at this year's HMHB Conference," says Johnson. "The work they are doing is truly amazing. Together, I know that we will make a difference for mothers and babies not only in Georgia, but around the country.""I appreciate the critically important work that both HMHB and Charles are doing to change the outcomes of preventable maternal deaths, which will send more mothers home with their precious babies," shares Charles' mother, Judge Glenda Hatchett.Charles Johnson, his work, and his family were recently featured on Dr. Oz and in People Magazine.The Award will be presented on Monday, October 23, 2017 at the Dublin Carnegie during the HMHB Annual Meeting and Conference. Johnson will also give a keynote address on October 24, 2017 at the Conference.The Award Reception will also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Women's and Children's Center at Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health, Presenting Sponsor for the event.About the AwardThe Carolyn Wetzel Continuum Award recognizes a volunteer or health professional who contributes to the health and well being of Georgia's families by being a positive change agent in the public arena of advocacy and policy. This award is in memory of Carolyn Wetzel, a long-time member, friend, and dedicated public health advocate for mothers and babies.Photos from the Conference and Reception will be posted at: www.facebook.com/HMHBGAAbout Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of GeorgiaSince 1974, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia has served as the statewide voice for improved maternal and infant health outcomes and access to healthcare. Learn more by visiting us online at www.hmhbga.org.For More InformationElise Blasingame404-205-6680elise.blasingame@hmhbga.org