Anthus, a facility known for its comprehensive pre and postnatal care, will host its final Mom’s Night Out: Birth Stories event from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday at Anthus Texas Pride Plaza Suite A-230, 4425 W Wadley Ave. This gathering, which has been a community favorite since Anthus opened its doors in 2019, typically draws 15 to 25 women.
"Every story is so different! So many factors at play: birth order, where the mom is at mentally and physically during pregnancy and labor, quality of care, and also things totally out of our control that make each birth experience unique and different," said Abby Krieg, Anthus' social media manager. "Sometimes women will say 'that happened to me too!!' and it can be cathartic to know you're not alone in your experience."
Building a community can be challenging in a town like Midland, where many residents relocate for work in the oil industry. Anthus has aimed to bridge this gap by providing excellent health care for pregnant and postpartum women and fostering a sense of connection and closeness through events like Mom’s Night Out.
"We were meant to live within a support system, and we are proud to have provided a place where women can find services they need and find each other," Krieg said. "The word 'Anthus' means to flourish -- we want all women to flourish and thrive in whatever season they are in."
The purpose of the Birth Stories night is to offer women a space to share and listen to personal birth experiences. Krieg believes that hearing others' stories, whether joyful or traumatic, can be incredibly freeing and validating.
Unfortunately, this month's event will be Anthus' last as the facility is set to close its doors in June. Despite this, many of Anthus' providers will continue their practice at other locations. Krieg expressed hope that community-building events like Birth Stories night, Mama Coffee Chats, and other educational classes will resume after a transition period, potentially hosted in private homes.
"For now, we will continue to use our social media platform as a resource for women to find services they need," Krieg said.
Anthus has left an indelible mark on the Midland community, offering essential health services and a supportive network for women during one of the most significant times of their lives. The final Mom’s Night Out: Birth Stories promises to be a poignant farewell for many who have found comfort and camaraderie within its walls.