MAMA Conference 26th and 27th April 2012

I have just returned from the fabulous MAMA Conference in Troon, Scotland, organised by the brilliant Cassie MacNamara.

Mary Cronk MBE had been booked as a speaker but had recently suffered a bereavement, and asked me to talk on her behalf about breech birth. These are big shoes to fill! I decided I could not teach about breech birth, but could provide a presentation paying Homage to all I’ve learnt from my mentor,  and great friend Mary Cronk.

With Knees shaking and voice quaking I took to the stage. It was an emotional moment as I knew I was only there because my learned colleague was at a funeral that very same day. I paid Homage to my mentor by showing photos of breech births which have been kindly shared by families who’ve births we’ve attended. Each breech birth taught me more and more about the skills needed to safely attend breech births. I hope Mary’s wisdom and teachings shone through my presentation. It was certainly well received!

Here is some of the feedback I’ve received:

“Met you at the conference, and was very inspired by all you shared with us on your breech experiences!”.

“It was so wonderful to hear you speak at the MAMA conference. It really was incredibly inspiring and I just know Mary would have been so proud of she could have seen you speak. Many thanks for sharing your wisdom.”

“Joy I would like to send my congratulations on yesterday’s presentation. You did Mary proud, and yourself, and I am sure that you will effect change in the NHS, they are very lucky to have you!”

I must have done something right as the organisers have invited me back next year!

The highlight for me was sharing the stories privately with the wonderful Ina May Gaskin. What a privilege to speak on Mary Cronk’s behalf, and to be able to discuss breech birth with Ina May Gaskin.

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