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VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) proudly hosted a heartwarming baby shower event for pregnant Veterans at the Chattanooga VA Clinic on May 8, 2024.  The gray clouds and rain

didn't stop TVHS from delivering on its promise to Veterans. Despite the ominous weather, the event saw a remarkable turnout of 10 Veterans attending, accompanied by multiple family

members and children, making the event a true family affair. Planning considerations like ensuring a calm environment, providing extra seating, and assistance by carrying items to

attendees' vehicles were priorities to create a welcoming environment for expecting mothers. Linda Humble, a Marine Veteran, expressed her appreciation for the thoughtful consideration

that was put into the baby shower event. "The community coordinator sent me an email to RSVP, and I’m glad I did. This is so casual and relaxing and not overwhelming for someone that

suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder," she said. Michelle Perkins, a Navy Veteran, shared her particularly serendipitous story. Having confirmed her attendance for the event

while she was still pregnant, Perkins attended the shower with her husband, two-year-old...and her newborn son, who was just days old.  "I gave birth to my son just 12 days ago, so my

husband and two-year-old were able to join me today. Having family attend made this baby shower even more enjoyable. I was so surprised with all the food and gifts. This was great that

Women’s Health put this together," Perkins remarked. The baby shower provided essential supplies such as baby diapers, wipes, gift cards, teethers, books, soaps, and more to the

pregnant Veterans. As attendees entered the event space, they pulled numbers out of a bag that correlated to bigger ticket items like car seats and portable infant play areas. Once the

Veterans received their items, VA employees carefully packed their goods into sturdy laundry baskets and transported them to the Veterans’ vehicles. “Our aim is to ensure that every Veteran

receives the care and support they deserve during this important time in their lives,” said Kathleen McCutcheon, women's health maternity care coordinator. Expecting Veteran families

can look forward to more baby shower events throughout the year in Middle Tennessee, especially in communities with the largest populations of pregnant Veterans. These events are part of

TVHS's ongoing efforts to support and celebrate Veteran families. To be eligible for future baby shower events, Veterans can enroll in health care at VA TVHS to begin receiving a range

of health care services and support, including free lactation kits, prenatal yoga classes, childbirth education classes, food and nutrition services, postpartum support, and more.  For those

interested in supporting or making donations, visit the TVHS volunteer website or call 615-225-4555.  For more information on maternity services and support, Veterans can visit the TVHS

women’s Veteran care website or call 615-918-4592.