Just before 5 a.m. on Wednesday Dec. 3, Matt and Frances Brodsky celebrated the birth of their third child, a baby girl, Vera Grace, at The Birth Center in Bryn Mawr, but employees at 36-year-old institution were just as excited because Vera is the 10,000th child to be delivered at the center.
A feeling of feverish suspense was palpable in the time leading up the birth. While it was unclear who would deliver the 10,000th baby, the center’s clients were nominating one another in a fun guessing contest, according to Executive Director Kathryn Boockvar.
"It really shows the trust and comfort that this community has in the birth center … It’s really a testament to the relationship with our patients,"Boockvar said.
Founded in 1978, The Birth Center is not your average maternity ward. One of America's oldest operating birth centers, it works from a midwifery model offering gynecologic and maternity care as well as parenting classes.
But it's The Birth Center's break from the normal idea of child preparation that makes it a favorite among community members -- the Brodskys being no exception.
"We believe that it is important that TBC exists. It is a place that gives women a choice in their healthcare, and that’s why we come here: for the choice, security, and ability to make informed decisions on what is best for our family," said the couple.
To honor the occasion, a massive celebration is being held on Dec. 14 for everyone who has received care from the center. as well as the community and friends. It will take place at Open Connections in Newtown Square, an event space owned by the 99th baby born at The Birth Center.
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"This 10,000th [baby] is exciting in and of itself, but we’re really celebrating all 10,000 babies that have been born over the last 36 years with the birth center." said Boockvar.
This year alone, the center will have delivered over 500 newborns.
"I can’t wait for the next 10,000!" Boockvar.said.
