Elizabeth Seton Childbearing Center (ESCbC) Closure News and Information

Christine Quinn Press Conference Postponed

We got word today from Christine Quinn's office that the press conference planned for this weekend has been pushed back 1-2 weeks. The reasons they gave for the delay include the upcoming holiday weekend and their attempts accomodate Senator Clinton's schedule. We hope to hear back from them soon regarding a future date. We will keep you posted.

NYC Council Member Christine Quinn to Hold Press Conference

NYC Council Member Christine Quinn is planning to hold a press conference regarding the status of midwifery services in New York City. Her staff tells us that it is likely to happen sometime after 11 am on Sunday, October 12th. All are welcome and encouraged to come out and show your support. Details to follow.

Former ESCbC Midwife Announces Labor Support and Home Birth Practice

Stacey J. Rees will be offering labor support/doula services to Elizabeth Seton clients and others as of November 15th. She may also develop a home birth practice. Please contact her directly at 212/431-4703 to discuss fees and availability for doula services or if you'd like to explore the possibility of planning a home birth with her.

Former ESCbC Midwives Resign from St Vincent's Midwifery Practice

The four midwives employed by St. Vincent's Hospital after the closure of Elizabeth Seton have decided to resign. Elissa Marsh and Kate Corona will be leaving the practice as of October 24th and Esme Howard and Stacey Rees will be leaving as of November 14th.

St. Vincent's has expressed its firm support for and commitment to the midwifery program and the hospital administration is actively recruiting three new midwives to replace the four midwives who will leave. Members of the hospital administration will be contacting current clients to make them aware that the midwifery program will continue and that the birth rooms will remain available. The midwives will be available to answer any questions that clients may have during regular prenatal care visits.

Kate Corona will be practicing at Bellevue Hospital, the other midwives are unsure about their future plans.

Update - Committee Formation

Over the past week, we have been busy reading and responding to the many emails that we have received from former clients and friends offering to donate a little of their time and/or skills to help us in our cause. We are deeply grateful for this show of support, and are in the process of organizing our volunteers into one of 5 committees: fundraising, legal, outreach, media/marketing, and computer/tech support. If you have emailed us to volunteer a specific skill, rest assured, we will be in touch very soon. If would like to volunteer and have not contacted us, feel free to email me at kristenapp@hotmail.com And thank you again.

2nd Rally Postponed

Despite the incredible energy and enthusiasm from supporters at our rally on September 4th, we have decided to postpone the rally that we were planning for this week. We feel that our energy right now should be focused on establishing "Friends of the Birthcenter" as a not for profit organization, and lobbying our cause with local elected officials on an individual basis. We will keep you posted.

WNYC: The Brian Lehrer Show

Former ESCbC Midwife Beverly Woodard, CNM, is scheduled for an interview with Brian Lehrer on Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 11:40 am. You can catch the interview on the air at 93.9FM/AM820, and on the web at www.wnyc.org.

NY1: Alternative Birthing Center In Chelsea Closing

Just in case you missed it on TV, you can check out a piece about ESCbC that was featured on NY1.

Video link: Modem users. Broadband users.

Closing the Doors

On a sad note, last night we closed the doors on a place that has meant so much to us. Not only was the birthcenter a safe place, where women and families could go to give birth the way that they chose, but a center that continued to offer support to these families for years to come.

The passing was honored with a public, candlelight vigil for birthcenter families, friends and supporters, and a private Mayan Fire ritual for past and present staff. Despite the fact that this wake of sorts was planned at the last minute, and was on a Sunday of a holiday weekend, it was well attended.

Thanks to all who shared in your love of the birthcenter, in your words, your presence and your spirit.

Here are some photos from the evening.

Candlelight Vigil

Please join us for an impromptu candlelight vigil for all birth center families and supporters on Sunday, August 31st, in front of the birth center from 8-10 PM. All are welcome to attend. We will supply the Ikea tea-light candles, but please bring a cup to use as a holder. Come help us commemorate the many sparks of life that came ablaze in this sacred place.