Published: April 04, 2009 08:25 pm      

Parents scoop up goody bags, information at Floyd Memorial Baby Fair in New Albany

Baby talk

Samantha Humbert realized a lot has changed in six years when it comes to baby delivery.

She’s due next week, so she stopped by Floyd Memorial Hospital and Health Services in New Albany on Saturday for its annual Baby Fair to get some last minute advice and updates.

“I’m just looking for more results and information on child care,” she said. “My last child, she’s 6 now, so it’s been awhile.”

More than 150 people packed the Paris Health Education Center during the first hour of the baby fair, according to Cindy Ferree, public relations specialist for Floyd Memorial. The crowds only grew as the day continued.

The 4-month-old Floyd Memorial Women’s Center was part of the reason for the crowd.

“Lots of people want to see the new center. It’s completed renovated and expanded, so a lot of moms are wanting to tour the center,” Ferree said.

The women’s center opened in December.

Last year, the hospital delivered more than 1,100 babies, and Ferree said they anticipate that number to grow to between 1,200 to 1,300 for 2009. That’s due in large part because of the new center, which includes two cesarean section rooms on the labor and delivery floor.

“It’s just a comforting and welcoming place with a really good atmosphere,” Ferree said.

There’s also a new hi-tech monitoring and security system for babies.

“We’ve got a lot of good feedback. People can’t believe how different it looks now,” Ferree continued.

Her voice sounded over a speaker system every few minutes, announcing the names of door-prize winners. The hospital handed out informational packets as well as treats for the parents who attended.

Twenty-six vendor booths were set up, including one by Babies “R” Us.

“It gets crazy for a little bit, but then the mothers move on and I get a chance to restock,” said Babies sales representative Kristi Davis.

This marked the fourth year the baby goods store supplied a booth at the event.

Nearly every table was crowded with parents and even grandparents who wanted tips, deals and information.

“It’s been a really good turnout,” Ferree said.



SO YOU KNOW

• Floyd Memorial Hospital and Health Services delivered more than 1,100 babies in 2008.