Western Baptist's annual Childbirth Fair set for Aug. 21

Just a year ago, Sommer Perkins was an expectant mom, just like the hundreds who will attend Western Baptist’s annual Childbirth Fair.

Now, she’s the mother of healthy nine-month-old Madelyn Grace, born at Western Baptist on Oct. 28, 2009 – a landmark occasion, considering all that the Perkins family endured.

Perkins, 33, still tears up when recalling the moment she heard her baby’s first cries. Over six years, Perkins and her husband, Lee, of Eddyville, had four miscarriages and a stillborn baby before Madelyn Grace arrived.

 “Hearing her first cry was so wonderful,” she said. “It was worth the six years of waiting. We had prayed for so long. It was so emotional and such a good feeling that prayers were answered, and we had a miracle baby.”

Expectant parents like the Perkinses can get useful information and see the Birthing Center at Western Baptist Hospital’s annual free Childbirth Fair from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 21, in the atrium of Doctor’s Office Building 2. Also, staff will have information on the hospital’s expanded neonatal services.

Western Baptist obstetrician/gynecologist Brad Housman, M.D., Perkins’ doctor, said the Childbirth Fair is a good time for parents to ask the hospital’s experts about pregnancy and childbirth.

“They can become more familiar with what the hospital offers, both for prenatal care and also for their birth experience,” Dr. Housman said. “Prenatal care is important because there are some very simple things we can do that affect the outcome of the pregnancy and that are beneficial for the child throughout their growth and development.”

Expectant parents can register for the hospital’s free maternity program, StorkCentral, which includes:

•  A free copy of the Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy.

•  An invitation to StorkSmart, an educational program with hospital staff, and free classes.

•  A StorkCentral coupon book filled with discounts from participating merchants.

•  Access to StorkCentral’s Baby Steps, an online pregnancy information center; the Stork’s Nest, the hospital’s online photo nursery; and StorkLine, a 24-hour hotline answered by Western Baptist nurses.

Phone (270) 575-BABY (2229) for more information.