Protecting Crossroads Moms: DeTar Raises Awareness About Preeclampsia

5/18/2026

Victoria, TX — What can look like normal pregnancy symptoms—swelling, fatigue, discomfort—can sometimes signal something far more serious. During Preeclampsia Awareness Month, DeTar Healthcare System is urging Crossroads families to recognize the difference and take action early.

Across the Crossroads, more families are facing pregnancy complications tied to high blood pressure, making awareness of conditions like preeclampsia more important than ever. This potentially dangerous condition can develop during pregnancy or even after delivery—and often without obvious warning signs—making early detection and consistent prenatal care critical to protecting both mothers and babies.

For Crossroads mom Abby Moreland, those warning signs appeared when she least expected them.

At 34 weeks pregnant, Abby experienced severe swelling in her feet and legs—paired with dangerously high blood pressure, reaching 159/104.

“I figured I was so close to delivery that swelling would be normal,” she said. “Looking back, I didn’t realize how important that symptom was.”

Her OB confirmed preeclampsia at that appointment and immediately sent her to the hospital for monitoring. Abby was hospitalized for five days before being induced at 36 weeks.

“All I could think was that it was too early,” she said. “I just wanted to do everything I could to keep my baby safe.”

Understanding the Risk

Preeclampsia is a form of high blood pressure that typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can affect multiple organ systems, including the liver, kidneys and brain. If left untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as stroke, organ failure, preterm birth and even death.

Maternal health continues to be a growing concern across Texas—including in rural and regional communities like Victoria and the surrounding Crossroads counties—where access to consistent prenatal and postpartum care can be more limited.

Monitoring and Care

After her diagnosis, Abby monitored her blood pressure closely at home while following strict bed rest orders—a major shift during what she described as the “nesting” phase of pregnancy. She credits her care team and OB for helping her stay calm and informed throughout the process.

“My care team was very positive and helped me understand what was going on and how to monitor at home,” Abby said. “My doctor stayed in close contact and kept me at ease. Hearing that she wasn’t worried helped me stay positive.”

A Critical Experience at DeTar

Abby delivered her son on January 8, 2024, and says the care she received at DeTar made a lasting impact.

“My experience at DeTar was amazing. Everyone was so kind and positive,” she said. “They closely monitored both me and my baby every step of the way.”

After delivery, Abby required continued treatment, including magnesium, due to ongoing blood pressure concerns. She described feeling weak during recovery but supported every step of the way.

“My care team was incredible, helping me with everything—from moving around to breastfeeding.” Her son was later admitted to the NICU for 21 days due to prematurity-related sleep apnea. “We are so incredibly grateful they caught it,” she said. “If we had gone home without knowing, it could have been very dangerous.”

While grateful for the outcome, Abby says the experience took a toll. “I felt like I had failed my baby,” she shared. “But having my husband and parents by my side helped me stay strong through it all.”

Recognizing the Signs

One of the most dangerous aspects of preeclampsia is how easily symptoms can be overlooked. Warning signs may include:

• Persistent headaches
• Changes in vision
• Swelling in the face or hands
• Sudden weight gain
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting later in pregnancy
• Shortness of breath

Because symptoms can progress quickly, routine prenatal visits are essential to monitor blood pressure and detect early warning signs.

Mary Claire Bradshaw, director of DeTar’s Women & Children’s Center, emphasizes the importance of proactive care and ongoing monitoring.

“Early detection is one of the most important tools we have in preventing serious complications from preeclampsia,” said Bradshaw. “That’s why consistent prenatal and postpartum care with a trusted OB/GYN provider is so critical. Even after delivery, ongoing monitoring and communication with your care team can make all the difference in protecting both mom and baby.”

Now, Abby hopes her story encourages other moms to trust their instincts and speak up.

“If something doesn’t feel right, call your doctor,” she said. “You have to advocate for yourself and your baby. It’s always worth it for peace of mind.” The only definitive cure for preeclampsia is delivery, but early diagnosis and careful management can significantly improve outcomes.

During Preeclampsia Awareness Month, DeTar Healthcare System encourages families across the Crossroads to learn the signs, stay consistent with care, and never hesitate to seek medical attention—because awareness can save lives.

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