December 2015 Volunteer of the Month
The International Cesarean Awareness Network is powered by the selfless efforts of our numerous volunteers. We cannot thank our dedicated volunteers enough for their cooperation and service in assisting ICAN with accomplishing its mission.
In an effort to acknowledge some of our amazing volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to offer support, education, and advocacy for the mothers in their area, the International Cesarean Awareness Network is pleased to announce Vivien Stembridge as the December 2015 Volunteer of the Month.
Vivien Stembridge, this month’s honoree, is our dedicated social media administrator for our main FB page and has been corresponding with mothers who contact us for almost a year and a half.
Get to know our December 2015 Volunteer of the Month:
How long have you been an ICAN member?
I became involved with ICAN when I was pregnant with my third child in 2013. The Orlando, FL chapter was invaluable during my search for a way to give birth vaginally after one cesarean. I wish we still lived close to a chapter.
How did you first find ICAN?
When I was researching VBACs, I stumbled upon the ICAN website and saw that there were local chapters that held regular meetings. I attended my first meeting soon after and just loved the whole experience.
What motivates you as a volunteer?
Being able to help women on their mothering journey is incredibly rewarding. My main motivation is remembering two births that left me feeling powerless and mistreated.
Do you have a profession or any other passions outside of ICAN?
I am a documentary style photographer. I am also volunteer with La Leche League. In addition, I am a certified birth doula.
What was your proudest moment as an ICAN volunteer? What about your hardest?
Thankfully, there are many proud moments. We receive a multitude of messages from mothers who thank us after they felt empowered and were able to experience a birth they feel positive about, be it a cesarean section or a VBAC.
Unfortunately, there are also often hard moments. The number of messages we receive from mothers whose birth experiences were bad or even traumatic is alarming.
Thank you Vivien for all that you do to support birthing women!
