About Mommy2Mommy
The "Mommy" network grew out of the Family Education program when women
started getting together after the organized events for walks, trips to a
playground, or visits to the local library with their children.
The friendships that have developed have tangible results. When a mother
became extremely stressed while her husband was out of town, one of the
"network" moms cared for the baby while the woman rested. Another made sure that
other needs were met. By the next day, the woman was feeling well enough to face
life again.
Since many of our mom's are "transplants" to the area, they often are without
the benefit of family and unable to "ask mom" what they should do or how to
handle certain situations that all mothers eventually face.
"Being a great mommy is a learned skill," according to networker Nicole
Pappano. Methodist's program and
the mommy network help by giving women opportunities to "share what they have
learned and learn from other moms. They give all of us transplants a base and a
feeling that we belong."
"There's lots of support for every aspect of motherhood: sleep deprivation,
breastfeeding, nutrition, exercise and friendship," said Aimee Welton. "It is
helpful to know that others are going through the same thing and to see the
children at different ages and stages."
For networker Robin Kercher, the greatest benefits are keeping her sanity,
getting through postpartum depression, and knowing she is not alone.
The moms' activities also help stay-at-home dad Marcel Wadley. "The exercise
class helps relax the mind and gives parents a long overdue break from total
attention to their child, while seeing that the child is in a safe, nurturing
environment," he explained. "The mommy network, which I am part of, inspires us
to share, laugh and offer a connection of help and attention to each other. It's
an extended family."
For
more information, call Stallings at (865) 835-2268 or fill out the feedback
form.