I so enjoyed the book- both as a cultural anthropologist and a midwifery student.  Rather than feeling saddened by the women birthing on a cement block... I actually envied the gentle simplicity of being born into the hands of a community midwife.  Maybe I am romanticing the role of traditional birth attendants and my visceral belief in the normalcy of birth.  But I also know that as a midwifery student, I am struggling to not become overwhelmed by the politics of malpractice insurance, community standards that are not evidence-based, and the struggle to stay true to the heart of midwifery amongst the medical mindsets of today.  Granted, I also appreciate my access to emergency medical care, the continuous supply of simple supplies, and freedom from health issues such as malaria and diptheria.  As I said above, maybe I am romanticing the community midwife... but I so appreciate what Monique represents and offers.

 

 

And as for Kris Holloway, thank you for sharing this story.  Two women, two years, and so many accomplishments.  Congratulations to you.  I had planned for years to serve with the Peace Corps until the soul of my sweet little one decided it was time to be born.  I am happy to be a mother and a midwife, but I will definitely spend time working overseas when the time is right for my family.

 

Thanks again for a wonderful book!!!