Bunbury Regional Hospital steps up to support expectant parents

When expectant parents Teri and Josh Townley were impacted by St John of God Bunbury Hospital’s decision to cease maternity services, the team at the State Government-operated Bunbury Regional Hospital stepped up.

Local Mum Teri said that despite her birth occurring in the main transition period, the public hospital did not falter in their care and delivery of baby Noah.

“We were admitted for our elective c-section on 3 July - the first week of private services ceasing,” Teri said.

“We already had an anxious pregnancy with a couple of health issues, but the one thing that really didn’t falter was how the public hospital cared for and supported all three of us – mum, dad and baby.”

Being second-time parents, Teri said it was important she remained close to home near friends and support networks.

“We were so relieved that we were able to stay in Bunbury, and the staff made it that much better,” she said.

“We felt they were there with us every step of the way.

“We felt welcomed, supported and more than cared for during our hospital stay, even under the high stress and uncertainty,” she added.

“We wanted to pass on our many thanks to everyone, particularly the midwives.”

Chief Executive Jeff Moffet said the Townley family were one of many the public hospital has assisted since the St John of God cessation.

“We really can’t thank our staff enough – they’ve gone above and beyond to make this a smooth transition for local families.

“Since the transition occurred, we’ve helped more than 60 additional families bring Bunbury bubs into the world.”

Since their birth, Teri and Josh have now settled into newborn life and are back at home as a family of four with baby Noah and two-year-old daughter Bryn.