Sharing Her Wisdom: Gladys’s Story

Gladys and John married soon after she graduated from college and decided that they wanted to have a child as soon as possible. Despite the excitement of their first baby, they felt much anxiety. The chronic arthritis, which had been a prevailing problem for Gladys for many years quickly worsened and left her helpless. She was also ill informed about the importance of proper nutrition and care during her pregnancy while her husband had apprehensions about fatherhood. Her search for help and answers led her to MOMS Orange County.

“My husband was really scared about becoming a dad because he was afraid of getting too attached to the baby and have it turn out to be a miscarriage. This in turn put a stress on my pregnancy.”

For many first time fathers, the lack of knowledge and experience results in false assumptions and beliefs about the well being of their child. In the workshop for fathers, John found a safe space where the men openly shared their concerns, insecurities and experiences. Gladys says, “He found a support system that he knew he could use if he wanted to.” He even placed his certificate into their baby’s scrapbook to be able to show their baby that he cared enough to go to the class.

For Gladys, the extension of care into her home by her Maternal Child Health Coordinator, Lupe, was the personal care she really needed. “My health plan was able to help me medically, by referring me to a doctor for my arthritis, but as far as support, Lupe was there for me. She was very understanding and took the time to explain everything to me.” In addition, taking the Pre-natal classes helped her learn about her body’s changes as well as her baby. “With MOMS help, I was able to actually enjoy being pregnant.”

Today, with their healthy and happy son Carlos, Gladys is thrilled that she found MOMS. “Honestly, my husband and I weren’t really ready to become parents at the start, but our outlook has completely changed due to the services MOMS provided. They say babies don’t come with instructions but we say, No, they do…with MOMS Orange County!”