Med Center Health’s Expectant Parent Fair connects families with resources in Bowling Green
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Expectant parents in Southcentral Kentucky had the opportunity Wednesday to prepare for life with a newborn during Med Center Health’s annual Expectant Parent Fair.
The event, held at The Medical Center–WKU Health Sciences Complex, brought together about 50 vendors offering education, demonstrations and resources for families preparing for a baby.
Kim Dethridge, director of women’s services at Med Center Health, said the fair is designed to be a “one-stop shop” for parents.
“We get a lot of first-time parents with a lot of questions,” Dethridge said. “This really is a one-stop shop for everything that you need to know … for care for the mom and even the dad and also siblings too.”
Attendees had access to hands-on demonstrations, including infant CPR and safe sleep practices, along with information on prenatal and postpartum care.
For many parents, the event also offered a chance to explore local resources and connect with others going through a similar experience.
Moriah Peterson, owner of Moriah Peterson Photography, said the fair highlights what the community has to offer families.
“I think this is a great way for expectant parents to see what all the Bowling Green community has to offer, from photography to lactation and all the care that they can get,” Peterson said.
Dr. Rachel Tinius, CEO of Bumped Up Labs, said events like this can help reduce the isolation some expectant mothers feel by bringing them together in one space.
“I think it’s really incredible for women in our community to know that they can come to a place like this, see tons of other moms … and feel this real sense of community,” Tinius said.
Expectant mother Olivia McGhee said having access to so much information in one place made a difference.
“It’s very convenient that everything is here in one place so I can get all my information … anything to help with baby after baby is born,” McGhee said.
Organizers say the fair, held each spring, helps families feel more confident and prepared ahead of their baby’s arrival, while also connecting them with resources they can rely on throughout pregnancy and beyond.
