I am writing to express my strong support for Dr. Figueiro's grant application for the proposed research on mitochondrial dysfunction, PLGF, and maternal depression in high-risk pregnancies. As a patient who has personally benefited from Dr. Figueiro's work, I can attest to the life-changing impact of this research and its importance for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.
During my first pregnancy, I experienced a series of complications, including placental insufficiency, severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and preterm delivery. My baby required a ten-day NICU stay and ongoing monitoring for over a year to ensure proper growth and developmental milestones were met. I also struggled with postpartum depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. This was the most stressful period of my life. At that time, no PLGF testing or monitoring was available to help identify or reduce these risks early in pregnancy.
In contrast, during my second pregnancy, I was fortunate to be part of a PLGF study led by Dr. Figueiro. My PLGF levels were identified as low early on, and I was able to receive timely treatment. As a result, I avoided the severe complications I had previously experienced. This proactive care changed everything for my pregnancy and my mental health. I cannot overstate how lucky I was to receive this support and how deeply I believe in the importance of this work for pregnant people across Saskatchewan.
This new study builds on that foundation. It aims to better understand how maternal mental health, particularly depression and stress, interacts with placental and mitochondrial function, and how this affects both the parent and the baby. This project holds the promise of detecting high-risk pregnancies much earlier, allowing for timely, preventative interventions.
As a patient, I know how easy it is to fall through the cracks of an overburdened healthcare system. Many others face similar or worse challenges, especially those in rural, remote, and marginalized communities, including Indigenous populations. I was fortunate to live in Regina and have access to specialized care — but equitable care should not depend on geography.
A point-of-care test to measure PLGF would make a significant difference. It could bring essential screening and care closer to home, enabling early detection and access to culturally appropriate support in rural and remote communities. Early intervention also means addressing mental health proactively, reducing the need for crisis care or emergency room visits. From my own experience, having access to early mental health support allowed me to stay well within my community and avoid emergency services altogether.
There is so much potential in this project — not only for improving outcomes for pregnant people and babies, but also for easing pressure on our healthcare system. It's difficult to overstate the importance of addressing perinatal mental health, placental function, and equitable access to care. These should be top priorities for research and funding.
As someone whose life and family have been profoundly impacted by PLGF research, I wholeheartedly support this new study and urge you to fund it. It has the potential to change lives, just as it changed mine.
