🕊️ Even in 2025, Women Are Still Dying in Childbirth: A Firefighter’s Mission to Honor His Wife’s Legacy
In an era of medical innovation and technology, it’s easy to assume childbirth is always safe — but for too many families, the reality is devastatingly different.
Matthew Okula, a Los Angeles firefighter, is sharing his heartbreaking story to raise awareness after losing his wife, Haley Marie Okula, during childbirth on March 29, 2025. Haley was just 33 years old — a dedicated emergency room nurse, a passionate social media influencer, and soon-to-be mom excitedly preparing for the arrival of their first child, baby Crew.
“She really, really, really was excited to be a mom,” Matthew told ABC7 Los Angeles.
After being in labor for three days, the doctors performed a C-section. Haley got to hear their baby cry. She saw the child she had dreamed about.
“They raised the baby up over the sheets… little did I know, that would be the only time Haley would ever see what she worked so hard for,” Matthew recalled.
Tragically, Haley suffered a rare pregnancy complication known as an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) — a medical emergency where amniotic fluid enters the mother’s bloodstream, triggering a severe reaction that prevents oxygen from reaching the brain.
According to the AFE Foundation, the condition strikes about 100 women each year out of 4 million U.S. deliveries. It’s rare — but often fatal.
“There’s no reason why Haley was picked as that person. It could be anyone,” said Matthew.
Haley had a significant impact on the nursing community. She ran the popular RN New Grads Instagram platform, guiding thousands of new nurses with education, encouragement, and honesty about life on the front lines.
Now, Matthew is determined to turn his grief into action — honoring Haley’s legacy and helping other families by shining a light on the dangers of AFE.
“As much as I’m going to brag to [Crew] about how awesome his mom was, he’ll see the impact she’s made on the world.”
This firefighter, husband, and new father is carrying the torch for the woman he loved — spreading her story, raising awareness, and reminding us that even in 2025, maternal health still has far to go.
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More on Dominic Carter
Veteran journalist Dominic Carter continues to make an impact through his powerful voice and relentless dedication to public service. Dominic hosts two live shows, each weekday on 77 WABC Radio — from 3 to 4 p.m. (EST) and again midnight to 3 a.m. EST. He also hosts a late-night Sunday show from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. EST. Join in from around the country on the 77 WABC app or online at www.wabcradio.com.
Beyond the mic, Dominic is a nationwide keynote speaker, inspiring audiences with his personal story and advocacy. Having been raised by his grandmother and aunt, Dominic speaks passionately on issues like Foster Care, Kinship Care, Child Abuse, Mental Illness, and Child Sexual Abuse. His book on his remarkable life is titled “No Momma’s Boy.” How I let go of my Past and embraced the Future. You can get a personally signed copy if you order it from Dominic’s website. www.Dominiccarteronline.com. (You can also order Dominic’s bobblehead there)
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