Fayetteville VA bonding Veteran families with special baby shower

WHAT:    “Bump, Baby, and Beyond” Baby Shower

WHEN:    Thursday, August 24, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

WHERE: Fayetteville Town Center, 15 West Mountain Street, Fayetteville, AR

WHO:      All Veterans who are pregnant or have delivered a baby in the last 4 years plus their spouses

BACKGROUND:

Women Veterans, in particular, find it difficult to find camaraderie when they visit the VA because there currently are simply fewer of them. Thanks to the great work of the maternity care coordinator, the women’s psychologist, and the entire women’s health team, the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (VHSO) is building camaraderie, awareness, and education amongst this unique population.

"Research has shown women Veterans are more likely to report having mental health challenges, feeling isolated or alone, and having worries related to finances and employment,” said Women’s Health Psychologist Amanda McCorkindale, Psy.D., ABPP. “At the Fayetteville VA, we truly value our contribution to a sense of community for women Veterans. We are so excited to provide this baby shower to show our support and to share in this transitional time in their lives." 

The “Bump, Baby, and Beyond” Baby Shower also serves as an opportunity to let Veterans, their families and caregivers know VHSO takes care of the whole person at all stages of life. All Veterans are invited find out for themselves what VHSO has to offer. During the event, there will be information booths, activities, and information about the PACT Act.  

"While every Veteran's experience is unique and individual to the person, I've found our shared experience as women who have served in the military helps to give us a common language and understanding,” said McCorkindale, a native Arkansan, Air Force Veteran, and a current member of the Army National Guard. “It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve women Veterans at this stage in my career." 

The VHSO Women's Health Program offers complete health care for women Veterans of all ages. It’s primary care providers specialize in women’s health and work closely with specialists in gynecology, obstetrics, female urology, oncology, medicine, radiology, surgery, and breast illness. Other services for women Veterans include:

• Ultrasounds, mammograms, Pap and HPV tests
• Mental health care and counseling
• Lifestyle wellness services
• Menopause treatment, including hormonal therapy
• Family planning, contraceptive care, and infertility evaluation

For more information, connect with a Women Veteran Program manager at www.va.gov/fayetteville-arkansas-health-care/health-services/women-veteran-care/.

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