Liberian News: “You Are Unsung Heroes Of Public Health”
…Bassa First Lady Tells Midwives on Int'l Midwife Day
Monrovia-First Lady Mrs. Vernier Johnson has described midwives of Bassa as unsung heroes in public health. Mrs. Vernier Johnson said midwives are on the front lines of maternal and newborn health telling them that they are the first hands to welcome life into the world and women catering should be treated genuinely.
Monrovia– First Lady Mrs. Vernier Johnson has described midwives of Bassa as unsung heroes in public health. Mrs. Vernier Johnson said midwives are on the front lines of maternal and newborn health telling them that they are the first hands to welcome life into the world and women catering should be treated genuinely.
Mrs. Johnson noted that Grand Bassa and across Liberia, the contributions of midwives cannot be overly stated adding that they are not only the caregivers but also counselors, advocates, and trusted companions to the women and families they serve.
The Bassa First Lady stressed that in various clinics, health centers, and even remote communities, it is midwives who often ensure that life begins safely and with dignity who do not just practice a profession but carry a calling.
“It is both an honor and a joy to stand before you today as we join the world in celebrating the International Day of the Midwife, a day set aside to recognize the selfless service and tireless dedication of midwives who continue to stand at the very frontlines of maternal and newborn health”. Mrs. Vernier Johnson added.
She maintained, “You are the first hands to welcome life into this world. You are the steady voices in moments of fear, the calm in crisis, and the strength behind thousands of safe births each year. You do not just practice a profession-you carry a calling.”
She said this year’s global theme, “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis”, reminds the public that midwives are not just critical to health care, but to the resilience and sustainability of our communities. In Liberia and Grand Bassa, we are acutely aware of the challenges midwives face, whether it is the long distances traveled to reach patients, the shortages of essential supplies, or the emotional toll of working in high-risk settings. Yet, through it all, our midwives continue to serve with courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment”.
Speaking to dozens of midwives on International Day of Midwives, Mrs. Johnson remained them of the work that saves lives. “Your presence in labor wards, rural clinics, and outreach programs is the difference between life and loss for countless mothers and babies. You are unsung heroes of public health in Liberia.”
“Midwives are more than healthcare providers, they are educators, advocates, and guardians of life. In many parts of the world, they are the first, and sometimes the only, contact women have with the health system. Through their hands pass the beginnings of life, and through their care flow hope, resilience, and empowerment. Despite challenges, from limited resources to long hours and under-recognition, midwives continue to serve with unwavering commitment.”
The Bassa First Lady reechoed that the work of midwives reduces maternal and newborn mortality, supports women’s rights, and strengthens families and communities.
She reiterated that the celebration should not only be a day of acknowledgment but also a call-to-action recommitting at every level of government and community, to supporting midwifery with real investment in training and professional development, and ensure fair pay of midwives, investment in medical supplies and safe working environments as well as making policies that protect, empower, and respect the work midwives do.
Mrs. Vernier Johnson cautioned stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, build health systems, and ensure that every woman, no matter where she lives has access to a skilled, caring midwife as she described them as a more than healthcare workers, a protector of life, builders of hope, and champions of collective future.
Comments are closed.