When Meghan Roth Clayton, pastor of Salem United Methodist Church in Mathews, found out that she and her husband Josh were expecting their first child last year, it was pure joy and excitement, as any expectant parents might have.

However, shortly after their son, James Eno, was born, she experienced a series of postpartum events that would forever change her life and the lives of her family.

After nearly losing her life and facing a battle she never imagined she would have to endure, she is doing her best to find some positive meaning from her suffering. Part of this includes helping to host this past Tuesday’s blood drive at the Piankatank Ruritan Club, Hudgins, alongside her fellow church members.

Meghan’s due date was Sept. 27, but James Eno decided to make his entrance into the world a bit early. She recalled it was to be a busy Sunday, filled with a men’s breakfast, worship, a district conference, Salem’s annual business meeting and even a baby shower a...