THEBACHA/FORT SMITH - A group of young mothers who have been helped by Fort Smith's midwifery program have joined forces to organize a community celebration of the service.

Midwife Lesley Paulette says she is thrilled that people in Fort Smith want to recognize the benefits of midwifery. She is seen here with Stefany Bourke, a former client. - NNSL file photo

The event, scheduled to take place at the rec centre from 4-6 p.m. on Nov. 6, will recognize families, babies, midwives, other healthcare professionals and individuals who have contributed to the success of midwifery in the community.

In particular, families will honour the two midwives – Lesley Paulette and Gisela Becker – who developed the maternity program at the Fort Smith Health and Social Services Authority.

"We're thrilled the community wants to celebrate moms, babies, midwives and all the other folks who have made it possible to bring birthing back to the community," said Paulette.

It has been five years since the NWT adopted midwifery legislation and an official program was established in Fort Smith.

Paulette and Becker offer prenatal and postnatal care, and their expertise in birthing has given Fort Smith women with low-risk pregnancies the option of staying in the community to give birth.

Jessica Cox, one of the event organizers, said this year was chosen for a celebration because of a number of recent milestones.

Out of the more than 200 babies born to Fort Smith families in the last five years, more than 100 have been safely delivered in the community. The arrival of the 100th baby was celebrated in August of this year.

"It's amazing how far this has come," said Cox, a mother of two. "I really believe this community is healthier for it."

In the midwifery program's first year of operation in Fort Smith, two-thirds of women chose to use the new service and only 30 per cent gave birth in the community. By 2010, a solid majority of pregnant women in Fort Smith are choosing midwifery care, and almost half of them are giving birth in the community instead of going to Yellowknife or a larger centre in the South.

"The quality of the care that Lesley and Gisela provide is outstanding," said Cox. "I talk all the time with other moms in Smith, and all say how lucky we feel to have the midwives. They help empower women in our community, and our families are healthier for it."

All members of the community are welcome to attend the celebration, which will feature a potluck feast, stories, children's activities and messages of congratulation from special guests.

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