When choosing where her first baby, Kenley Renee was going to be born, Shelly Wilcox was like every mother, she’d only settle for the best.  Living about half-way between Branson and Springfield, Wilcox had plenty of options.  “From the start of my pregnancy, I knew Skaggs was where I wanted to have my baby,” she explained.  “We struggled to conceive, but with the pre-natal care provided by Dr. Allison being so successful, I knew Skaggs was where I wanted to deliver.”

This new mommy was nervous and excited during her 48 hours at Skaggs.  When frustrations from breast feeding difficulties got her stressed, nurses were there providing comfort and support.  “They were so patient with me while I freaked out trying to learn to breast feed.  They were so helpful explaining it to me and telling me it was okay and offering suggestions,” said Wilcox.  “They were never pushy and were amazing to us – just wonderful.”

Skaggs Family Birthing Place uses a family approach, doing its best to include family members who will have a role in the new baby’s life.  “I loved having my parents and husband in the labor room with me,” she said.  “The rooms are awesome and gorgeous and roomy enough for all of us to comfortably be together leading up to the delivery.”

“Not only was Kenley in my room with me, but my husband was there too,” explained Wilcox.  “I appreciated that my husband could be there the entire time with our baby in my room and that when I needed a break, the nurses were happy to take Kenley so I could rest.”

Above all, Wilcox appreciated the care her newborn received and felt like her decisions in the care for her child mattered.  “The care Kenley received right off the bat was amazing.  They were also very respectful of my care decisions for my daughter, never judging once and always working with me.”

Kenley Renee Wilcox was born August 25, 2011.