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 Jessica Franks as the April 2017 Volunteer of the Month. Jessica is a dedicated volunteer out of ICAN of Phoenix and a Regional Coordinator who’s been with ICAN for seven years. We appreciate the work she does!
How did you first find ICAN?
My husband found ICAN for me while I was dealing with Postpartum Depression. I attended a few local meetings, read endless posts in the chatroom (back when that existed!) and signed up to volunteer with my local chapter and ICAN national.
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What motivates you as a volunteer?
Helping women! I have listened to endless birth stories at local meetings and sent countless emails helping women set up local chapters. I am very lucky to have my husbands support and have the free time to devote to something I am passionate about.
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Do you have a profession or any other passions outside of ICAN?
Outside of staying home to raise my 3 girls, 2 cats, and 3 chickens, I do have a VBAC specific ETSY shop. I created the shop because finding VBAC and Cesarean items was so hard! I haven’t really made any money, but at least my arts and crafts pay for themselves now.
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What was your proudest moment as an ICAN volunteer? What about your hardest?
Proudest moment? Receiving any form of thank you from the women I serve. Hardest moment? It is hard to stay motivated when life gets crazy. But then when I go to a meeting and talk with women who are in the same spot I was in nearly 7 years ago, I’m renewed with passion.
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Thank you for all you do!
