Several weeks ago, we hosted an event to celebrate the legalization of midwifery in Missouri. Quite a few long time supporters came together to comemerate this historic event and thank God for His providential blessing.
Dr. David and Lee Stewart, homebirth pioneers, spoke to the group, sharing some long term history of the movement. They are the founders of NAPSAC (National Association of Parent and Professionals for Safe Alternatives in Childbirth) and authors of many excellent books, including the Five Standards for Safe Childbearing. They are also wonderful, dear people. Dr. Stewart told us of their first prenatal visit, in 1962, when they asked their doctor for three things: 1.) No anesthesia 2.)The baby not be separated from the mother 3.)The father be allowed to attend the labor and delivery. The doctor flatly denied all three requests and asked them to leave. Thus began a journey that has benefitted so many of us.
Senator Mike Gibbons, President ProTem of the Senate, spoke to the group, expressing his admiration and respect for Mary Ueland and Debbie Smithy, and stating that the midwifery supporters were the best grassroots effort he had observed in his sixteen years at the capitol.
Senator Chris Koster spoke later in the afternoon, also sharing his great esteem for Debbie and Mary. We were pleased to have these two powerful men honor Debbie and Mary for their extremely dedicated, exceptionally intelligent and effective lobbying efforts.
No comments:
Post a Comment