A vote for not only those who are suffering, but for all women

This was a vote for Brooke Shields, for Mary Jo Codey, and even Andrea Yates.

This was a vote for people who have suffered with postpartum depression, but felt isolated and alone in their struggle.

In particular, it was a vote for Melanie Blocker-Stokes, a Chicago native and pharmaceutical sales manager who, after the birth of her daughter, developed a psychosis that ultimately caused her to jump from a 12-story window ledge to her death on June 11, 2001, according to the Office of Legislative Policy and Analysis.

Along the way, people like Blocker-Stokes were treated with skepticism when their stories were told. They were mocked and treated as though their illness was nothing more than "the baby blues." All they've been told over the years is to "get over it."

On Monday, at 4:15 PM, what was described by supporters as "perinatal mental health history" took place when the House of Representatives, by a 382-3 vote, passed the "Melanie Blocker Stokes Postpartum Depression Research and Care Act."

The bill, if enacted, would require the secretary of Health and Human Services to expand and intensify research activities regarding postpartum depression and psychosis. The bill would also require additional support for basic and clinical research, epidemiological studies, diagnostic techniques and educational programs, according to the OLPA.

Susan Stone (above photo, with Sen. Robert Menendez), president of Postpartum Support International, said the bill's vote came as the result of "seven years of steadfast advocacy."

"It was a thrill to watch from the Congressional Gallery as Congressman Bobby Rush made his final, victorious push for American women, children and families," she said.

Now the bill will proceed to the Senate where Stone hopes that success will follow, and then to President Bush's desk.

Let's hope that the president remembers the people who are suffering.