20-Year Birth Center Celebration

Babies grown into 20-year-olds could be some of the special guests in attendance at this weekend's birth center celebration in East Tennessee.  Lisa Ross Birth and Women's Center is hosting its 20th Anniversary Celebration Saturday from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.  The downtown Knoxville center is holding festivities on the eastern edge of town, at New Harvest Park.  That's at 4775 New Harvest Lane, near the Knoxville Center exit off Interstate 640.

Director Carmen Pitt says the nonprofit has helped 2,200 babies born at the center, plus another 1,100 born in a hospital setting over the past two decades.  The freestanding birth center is the only one in Knoxville accredited with the American Association of Birth Centers.  Lisa Ross was the Director of Midwifery Services during the 90s.  Now the Lisa Ross Birth and Women's Center continues its mission of offering low-cost services, empowering women, educating about the normal birth process and supporting families.  Clients typically work with certified nurse midwives, get assistance from lactation consultants and have access to support groups.

Saturday's Anniversary Celebration includes several family friendly events.  The Rainbow Theatre is scheduled to offer a free, Waldorf-themed puppet show at 3 o'clock.  Acoustic music, children's activities and a special program are planned, as well.  A silent auction will offer great deals on diapers, chiropractor visits, music, baked goods and even Dollywood tickets.

Why so much celebration about a birth center?  Here's a personal account of what the the Lisa Ross Birth and Women's Center meant to Rebecca at Simply Natural Mom.

Lisa Ross Birth and Women's Center Facebook page and website