The next shipment is scheduled to leave Saskatoon at the end of June. Please drop your blankets, hats and whatnot off at Mothers' Melody Market (at the Birth Rhythms Studio on 3rd Avenue). Or call me and we can arrange to meet.
As you may know, I had the privilege of traveling to Ghana, West Africa in the Spring of 2011. My purpose was to learn about women and birth in this beautiful part of Africa, where most births are attended by Midwives.
I learned so much while having the honor of receiving many baby’s and witnessing their first moments and hours of life. The women in the mission hospital are expected to bring their own blankets and birthing supplies. Inevitably, some of the women arrive with nothing, leaving the staff scrambling around to find something soft enough to wrap up the newborns as they are born. The first baby I attended for whom I was entirely responsible was born to a young Mother. Most of the Mom’s don’t name their babies for several weeks but I felt compelled to ask her anyway. “Promise! His name is Promise.” As I prepared to leave this stunning place, I made a plan that I would send something back to help and support birth in this little community that grew to be like family to me.
Since arriving home in May, I’ve been collecting Receiving Blankets and was able to send 2 file sized boxes through a friend before Christmas. The normal cost of each shipment is $290.00. If you wish to donate, please send a pay pal donation to dianeotterbein@sasktel.net. In this case, I sent the money I had collected to the maternity ward at Holy Family and they confirmed that it arrived safely. I am collecting blankets for the next shipment now so if you would rather donate some blankets or pens, that would also be appreciated. Thank You in advance for your support on this! Please email me if you have any questions or thoughts. Better yet, if you know anyone who is going to Ghana, please send them my email address.
