Community Baby Shower has large turnout
By Traci Moyer, The Herald Bulletin, Anderson, Ind. | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
"She is painting my daughter's name," Armstrong said with a smile.
Armstrong, 23, is seven months pregnant with her first child and attended the community event to participate in the free seminars and activities.
"I think it's good we can all come together," she said. "It's real fun and I'm excited."
About 150 people, 80 of whom were expecting or new mothers, attended the event Saturday, sponsored by
"This is the first year and you never really know what is going to happen," Williams said.
Williams said one of the goals for the event is to help mothers raise healthy children, safely.
"All parents want to do that, but do not necessarily know how to do that," she said.
According to a report from
The report also says teen births are contributing to the large number of deaths as these mothers tend to be "poorer, less educated and receive less prenatal care than older mothers."
Offering the resources at the Community Baby Shower is one of the ways
Presentations on infant safety, sleeping safety and prenatal nutrition were mixed in with a maternity fashion show, belly painting and a free lunch.
Information booths on baby safety and wellness were also on display.
Williams said
Those under 19, who are pregnant and meet income guidelines, can qualify for Hoosier Healthwise. The Healthy Indiana Plan is for those between the ages of 19 to 64 who are not eligible for other health insurance coverage plans. For those who qualify, the plans are available at free or reduced costs.
Planning for the event took three months, Williams said.
"The main goal is to connect people in the community with resources on better care and early learning," she said. "A lot of younger mothers are here."
"It's a great idea," she said. "I came mostly for them, " she said referring to the doctors and pediatricians attending the event who provide care for her and her daughter.
Jones introduced her daughter to one of the doctors who provided her prenatal care and spent time looking at the booths on display.
Other doctors, like Dr.
Drezaliu wore an empathy belly during the event. He said it was the first time he had ever tried the device that allows people to experience what it feels like to carry the weight of a pregnancy.
"Men don't get pregnant for a good reason," he said rubbing his lower back and complaining about the weight.
Drezaliu, who has been with St. Vincent for a year, was quick to answer when asked how many babies he has helped to deliver.
"The number doesn't count," he said. "Each experience is unique."
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If you or someone you know is uninsured and expecting a baby, call 608-3062 to learn about free or reduced rate insurance plans and programs to help you raise a healthy baby.
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Statement by Dr. David Michaels Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health
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