Meeting Their Needs While Focusing on Our Mission Above

BURLESON, TEX. – The mission of the women’s services team at Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South is to provide young expectant mothers with guidance and hope so they feel loved and supported throughout their pregnancy. With an increasing number of teen pregnancies, the women’s team took the initiative to create a program focused on providing teenage pregnancy education.

“We have found that some of these young women are afraid and less inclined to attend childbirth education or prenatal classes,” said Jennifer Flores, MSN, administrative director of nursing. “We saw this as an opportunity to build that bridge of stewardship in our neighborhood to help provide resources for these young women. We want them to know that they are not alone.”

The Pregnancy Education Program is spearheaded by Kari Griswell, childbirth/community educator; Rhonda Fuselier, director of women’s services; and Flores. The program provides resources and classes on healthy nutrition, access to care and hospital campus tours to better acquaint expectant mothers with the facilities.

“I want these young moms to have the opportunity to ask questions in a safe environment where they aren’t lumped in with married couples,” said Griswell. “That way, we can speak their language and ease any nerves. I want to meet them where they are and let them know they are loved.”

Griswell has worked tirelessly with a local school to establish this program and make it easier for teen moms to get access through monthly campus visits where Griswell teaches the class.

“If we as health care providers can help minimize the fear of judgment and provide support and encouragement to these young moms and their families, then we are doing what we have been called to do,” said Flores. “Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ.”

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By Kaitlyn Braddock

Marketing Communications Manager