Get to know Jeremy Galvan of Maryland Families for Safe Birth.
What are you going to speak about at the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR?
Why on earth would anyone have a home birth? We are going to discuss what a modern home birth experience is like, what a midwife is, what midwives are trained to do and how the midwife model of care is different from the hospital model of care. The presenters Jeremy and Antoinette are going to talk about the home births in their families and how they deeply impacted their lives. We will briefly talk about interventions the hospital commonly use and how, through education, a woman can take charge of her birth and have an excellent experience no matter where she chooses to deliver her baby.
What are you most looking forward to sharing with FAIR attendees?
I am most looking forward to sharing my experience with home birth to husbands who are on the fence about this issue. I feel that as men we need to educate ourselves about birth so that we can take part in supporting our partner through this life-changing experience.
Tell us about your background with your particular topic.
I am a paramedic in Maryland. My wife had a home birth for our son Samuel in January of 2011. It changed my life. I have taken on the cause of legalizing certified professional midwives in Maryland. As president of Maryland Families for Safe Birth, we are working to pass a bill through Maryland’s General Assembly that would license CPMs and allow them to serve Maryland families in birth centers and in homes.
Why should fairgoers attend your presentation?
I would hope that anyone who is interested in having children or having more children would be interested in this amazing way to bring children into your family. I believe that education is key to happiness. Without knowing your options, you have none. I hope to give an example of one option that women can consider when choosing how to give birth.
How will you get to the FAIR, and how far do you have to travel?
We are driving a few hours from Hagerstown, MD.
What are you most looking forward to at the FAIR?
Finding out about chicken coops. I am hoping to start raising some chickens in the next few years.
What advice do you have for attendees?
There is so much to see at the FAIR. Think about what practical things you can learn which would be the easiest to actually do at your home. There are tons of resources there.
If you were stranded on a deserted island and could have only one thing, what would you choose?
A 1937 Martin D-28 (a guitar). If that wasnt available I’d take my wife.
Thanks, Jeremy. We’ll see you at the FAIR!
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Please visit the FAIR website for more information about the Seven Springs, Pa. FAIR September 24-25, and upcoming FAIRs in other locations. Tickets are on sale now.
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Keep an eye out for Trivia Ticket Tuesdays and Trivia Ticket Thursdays for your chance to win two tickets to the FAIR!
