Episcopal Health Services (EHS) has announced the birth of the first baby in its new Labor and Delivery Suite at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, New York. On August 20, Joannie Farris, a resident of Far Rockaway who was also born at St. John’s, gave birth to her daughter Stella with partner Robert Leandry present. Stella weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces and measured 21.6 inches.
Farris described her experience as a first-time mother: “I was very nervous going through this process, especially being induced as a first-time mother,” she said. “But the experience was absolutely beautiful. Everyone who came in to check on me or take my vitals was so supportive, even when I was in pain. Now that I have my baby in my arms, it’s an incredible feeling, and I’m so grateful for the care I received.”
She also shared how hospital staff helped create a supportive environment during labor: “I know the nurses were just doing their job, but it felt like a real family bringing new life into the world,” she added.
The Labor and Delivery Suite opened on August 18 and is part of EHS’s efforts to enhance maternal care services for residents of the Rockaway Peninsula.
Donald T. Morrish, MD, MMM, Chief Executive Officer at EHS stated: “This suite demonstrates our dedication to the health and well-being of our community and our ongoing focus on advancing maternal care. We are proud to offer families a space that combines clinical excellence with a warm, welcoming environment.”
Jacqueline Marecheau, MD, FACOG, Chair of OBGYN at EHS added: “Bringing the Labor and Delivery Suite to life is a dream realized for everyone at EHS, and most importantly for the mothers we serve. It is incredibly rewarding to provide moms with a beautiful, modern setting where they can receive the high-quality care they deserve.”
As part of celebrating Stella’s arrival as the first baby born in the new suite, Farris and Leandry received diapers, wipes, toys and clothes from St. John’s ICARE Foundation.
EHS serves communities on the Rockaway Peninsula by providing emergency and ambulatory care as well as preventive services regardless of patients’ ability to pay.
