You’re Our All-American Baby!
Forty moms-to-be whose spouses are active military members had the opportunity to enjoy what most expectant women may take for granted – a baby shower! The moms, whose spouses are members of the Navy, Marines, and National Guard, were honored during a group shower. With an All-American Baby theme, the event was hosted by Northern Trust in partnership with the PGA TOUR’s Birdies for the Brave military outreach initiative, with Blue Star Mothers of America, ChildServ and the Michael Reese Health Trust serving as presenting sponsors.
“For military wives who are expecting a baby and whose spouses are deployed…the impending arrival of a child can be both exciting and stressful,” said Operation Shower Founder and Chief Shower Officer LeAnn Morrissey. “Operation Shower was created specifically because typically military moms are the ones who hold it all together at home. Without their spouses by their side…these moms deserve our support, our thanks, our love and an opportunity to celebrate together.”
Team Work Makes the Shower Work
During the “All-American Baby”-themed shower, the moms enjoyed lunch, taking the opportunity to share stories and gain comfort from other moms-to-be. The highlight of the event was the presentation of Operation Shower’s signature “Shower in a Box.” Each mom received an array of unique gifts for mothers and babies that were donated by numerous companies; these included supporting sponsors PepsiCo, Petunia Pickle Bottom, and Chicago-based companies Kolcraft and Radio Flyer. From baby bottles and clothing to crib bedding, diaper bags and toys, the presents will go a long way toward supporting the moms-to-be.
“It’s a privilege to join with Operation Shower, Birdies for the Brave and our presenting sponsors to express our gratitude to these courageous military moms-to-be for their service and sacrifice,” said Deborah Liverett, Senior Vice President of Community Affairs, at Northern Trust. “They deserve to be recognized for all they do at home that enables their loved ones to defend our freedom abroad…we are delighted to do that through this special event.”
All-American Favorites
Two-time Chicago Emmy Award-winner Kathy Brock, co-anchor of the ABC 7 News, served as the event’s honorary guest host. Brock is involved with Deborah’s Place, which is a transition facility for abused women getting back on their feet; she also serves on the Board of Directors for Erikson Institute, a graduate school in child development. Other special guests included James Jones, president of ChildServ; and Joyce Carrasco, Founder and President of the Greater Chicago, Illinois #3 Chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America.
“The Greater Chicago Illinois #3 Chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America is thrilled to have played a role in bringing Operation Shower to Chicago,” Carrasco said. “It has been our mission since 1942 to be in service to our military and their families. The city of broad shoulders and loving hearts stands ready to assist our expectant military moms in all ways possible.”
“Through our work on the Illinois Military Families Initiative, ChildServ understands the sacrifices that military families make for our country,” said Jones. We are proud to partner with Operation Shower to honor these military moms.”
Make sure to check out more photos by Taryn Lisa Photography in our Facebook album!
