A total of 100 women converged in the early hours of March 8, 2014, the same day when women all over the world celebrated International Women’s Day. As early as 7:00 a.m., women of different ages from different barangays in Sta. Rosa City lined up to register for either pre-natal check-ups, pap smear, or ligation; all offered for free in the event.
Now on its 4th year, Buntis Wellness is the flagship activity of the Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro, in line with their mission to commit to the care of women and children, in particular within the City of Sta. Rosa. With the help of generous sponsors and partners Marie Stope, PhilHealth, Maya Kitchen, Congressman Dan Fernandez, and our very own Mayor Arlene Arcillas, Buntis Wellness 4 was once again a big success in addressing the needs of our indigent sisters in Sta. Rosa City.
About 40 pregnant women were checked by the midwives and nurses of Doray’s Paanakan, who meticulously performed pre-natal check on each one and gave them some much-needed vitamins. This year, even non-pregnant women were made part of the activity. Some 30 women signed up for the free pap smear done by Centro Lady Dra. Auralyn Salandanan, and another 30 women were screened for bilateral tubal ligation performed by one doctor, two nurses and one staff from Marie Stopes.
As the women waited their turn, a series of speakers provided helpful information. First speaker was Ms. Pam, a representative of Marie Stope, who gave a very informative lecture about ligation – the qualifications for the procedure, the procedure itself, and its benefits. There was also a talk on breastfeeding and personal care, while Centro lady Dra. Jennifer Dee talked about New Born Screening. Ms. Mercy Nepomuceno of PhilHealth gave a talk on how the participants could avail of PhilHealth ng Masa and how they could make their claims. This was followed by talks from our friends and sponsors. After each talk, Centro Lady Mean Gonzales, who acted as emcee, asked questions to the audience. Participants who gave the correct answer received giveaways.
Just before lunchtime, the participants were thrilled to get a surprise visit from Congressman Dan Fernandez, who gave an inspirational talk and gamely posed for pictures with the women in the audience. Joking that he has never seen so many pregnant women before, Congressman Fernandez commended the Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro for organizing such a worthwhile activity.
Aside from the talks, free medicine and giveaways, the participants were treated to yummy treats from Maya Kitchen and a filling lunch from the Office of Mayor Arlene Arcillas. Soon after, the women went about their separate ways as they finished their turn. It was, indeed, a very meaningful way to spend International Women’s Day, the RC Sta. Rosa Centro way!
Rotary Club of Sta. Rosa Centro 