Amid night shifts and preparations for their own newborns, the maternity nurses at HSHS St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, Wisconsin, are managing two of life’s most demanding roles: caring for new parents while becoming new parents themselves.
In a notable coincidence, 14 nurses from the hospital’s Women and Infants Center are anticipating the arrival of their own babies—all within just a few months of one another.
This shared experience has created a built-in support system—something every parent understands can significantly impact those initial days.
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From caring for mothers to becoming mothers themselves
These nurses have devoted their careers to guiding and assisting women through pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. Now, they are preparing for their own transitions into motherhood—a journey filled with both excitement and apprehension.
Amy Bardon, the director of the Women and Infants Center, told ABC News that this moment feels especially significant: “Each of these women already knew how to care for babies and mothers, but for many of them, this experience will deepen that knowledge in a way no training can.”
An instant village of support
The expectant nurses not only are colleagues but also form a strong support network as they navigate this significant life change together.
Labor and delivery nurse Anna Cody shared, “When she said she was pregnant pretty early on… then I was like… I am, too!”
Her colleague, Molly Van Enkenvort, added, “We’re all keeping tabs on each other, though.”
Cody’s other co-worker, Ashlyn Short, highlighted the camaraderie and bond among the group, saying, “All of these women hold such a special place in my heart, and we have worked together for years. I’ve been there for some of their other babies, and now we just get to all raise all these babies at the same time.”
Delivering their own babies where they assist others
While continuing to care for expectant mothers, these nurses are also preparing to become new moms themselves. Their dual roles exemplify the emotional labor and strength of working mothers everywhere.
Bardon noted that the nurses find reassurance in knowing their deliveries will be handled by familiar, caring hands: “When our expecting nurses are ready to welcome their little ones into the world, they’ll be cared for by their friends and colleagues.”
Related: Labor & delivery nurse finally gives birth—what shocked her the most
5 tips to build your mom village before baby arrives
Whether your support network emerges at work, in your community, or through an online platform, having people to lean on can transform the early stages of parenthood from overwhelming to joyful.
Here are five simple steps to get started:
- Join local prenatal classes to connect with other expecting parents.
- Seek support online via parenting forums, Facebook groups, and apps offering guidance.
- Participate in community events like library story times, baby expos, or local meetups.
- Reach out to friends and family; your closest support may be right in your circle.
- Consult your healthcare team—midwives, OBs, and pediatricians often have information on local or virtual support groups.
Every parent deserves a village
The story of these nurses serves as a reminder that no parent should face this journey alone. Sometimes, all it takes to begin building your village is simply sharing a “me too.”
Image Source: Unsplash
