We had been looking for weeks for a midwife to deliver our 2nd child. I was doing some grocery shopping and found the FNMA newsletter in my basket. When I arrived home and read it, I felt as if it were a gift from heaven. This sounded like the midwives for which we had been praying and searching. Jeannette was as close, if not closer then Pittsburgh, and much less traffic. Plus, I liked the idea of delivering at a smaller hospital for a more personal experience. After my 1st visit I knew with certainty that Gretchen, Sandy and Sue was not an accident but truly a gift from God!

Six months later in the wee hours of the morning on September 10, I was awakened by a kick from the baby and the onset of labor. I walked through the house to help labor progress and packed the remainder of my bag. After 3 hours, the contractions were stronger and I knew it was time to go to the hospital. When we arrived, Gretchen met us with a smile and she remained with me every moment. What a nice change to have someone pushing to help and coach me. Gretchen allowed me to try different birthing positions, drink water as needed and rest through several contractions to regain my strength for pushing. All of these things were taboo with our 1st child. Gretchen and the nurses at the Family Birth Place helped to create a calm and encouraging environment. What a refreshing change from the high-tech experience with out 1st child.

We are so grateful to have found Gretchen and the FNMA. Gretchen helped to make the birth of Eli a fulfilling and empowering experience.

Thank you and God Bless!

Robert & Cathy Welty

West Elizabeth, Pa.