The 57th Annual Mon Health Medical Center Auxiliary Ball of the Year was held on November 16, 2019, bringing in funds totaling $208,000 to support the launch of a community-focused perinatal depression program. This program is the first of its kind in West Virginia, and one of only 13 in the nation.
“Through the outstanding work of our auxiliary with the Ball of the Year, we have already screened over 500 patients identifying 53 at risk mothers,” said Luella Gunter, Mon Health Executive Director of Philanthropy.
One in nine mothers will experience a perinatal mood disorder such as postpartum depression following childbirth. To combat postpartum depression and related conditions, Mon Health Medical Center recently announced its first Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder Nurse Navigator, Jennifer Bender, will serve as a supporter of families aided by the perinatal depression program. Bender worked as a labor and delivery nurse for 17 years and will use her experience in this area to assist mothers and families during pregnancy, birth and beyond.
The 2020 Ball of the Year proceeds are designated to expand the program by adding additional providers and services.
“As a mother who had postpartum depression, I am grateful on behalf of all the mothers and families who desperately need this first in West Virginia intervention,” said Danica Rubenstein, 2019 Ball of the Year Chair. “Mon Health is continuing to lead the way and make a difference.”
To learn more about the perinatal depression program or attend our support group, contact Nurse Navigator Jennifer Bender, 304-599-6811 or BenderJ@monhealthsys.org. To donate to the program, visit monhealth.com/donatePMAD.
