Nurse midwifery is an occupation which itself was born in the early 20th century, but has found a firm footing today in Clark County, which has about 20 local practitioners. Nurse midwife Elizabeth Morales is a young mother herself, but sleep deprivation doesn’t diminish her passion for helping families enter their transition into parenthood.
Name: Elizabeth Morales.
Residence city: Gresham, Ore.
Employer: Pacific Midwifery Service, 1319 N.E. 134th St., #105, 360-885-7926.
Age: 32.
Educational/professional background: Bachelor of Arts in sociology/social work and social policy. Associate’s degree in nursing, Master of Science in nursing. Completed Community-based Nurse-Midwifery Education Program through distance learning at Frontier Nursing University, based in Hyden, Ky.
How you got started in your business: I started as a doula (birthing attendant) in 2006 supporting mothers and families through labor and birth in a nonmedical way. I fell in love with my work and started on my path to nurse-midwifery. I graduated with my MSN in 2014.
Personal/business philosophy: Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Ask questions and be curious.
Most rewarding part of job: I love supporting families through this transition of welcoming a new baby, answering their questions and creating a safe birthing space. But the list is endless. So many facets of my job are incredibly rewarding.
Most challenging part of job: Sleep deprivation, staying up all night. And then sometimes taking care of my two small children the next day if no baby-sitter is available!
One thing you’d like people to know about your work: We love mothers and babies, but also specialize in gynecological care. We care for women from adolescence through menopause. Every woman deserves and can benefit from midwifery care.
Favorite travel destination and type: My husband and I flew to Hawaii a few years ago. I love anywhere with warm, clear blue water and beautiful beaches. And great food!
Best feature of your Clark County community: Clark County is a special place because of the sweet, friendly, hometown feel, the gorgeous outdoor areas to explore, with fun festivals and exciting night life. It really has fun for all to enjoy!
What would make your community a better place: There are already so many opportunities to connect with community members in Clark County. I believe connection is key to forming a strong, thriving community. We will continue to grow and improve as we support each other, prioritize health and wellness, education, and our relationships.
Favorite restaurant/pub/coffee shop/store: I love food! I get really excited about all the yummy, nutritious foods and ingredients at Whole Foods.
Hobbies: With two small children and a career, my time for hobbies is limited. I wish I could spend more time camping, hiking, knitting, gardening. One day!
Most enjoyable book/play/movie/arts event in past 12 months: I really enjoyed watching “Interstellar.” Very thought-provoking.
Something you’d like to do this year/within five years: Run Hood to Coast.
One word to describe yourself: Optimistic.
Person you’d most like to have met: Mary Breckinridge, who founded the Frontier Nursing Service which became Frontier Nursing University. She dedicated her life to caring for mothers and babies living in extreme poverty in Appalachia, making home visits on horseback in harsh conditions at all hours of the day and night. Maternal and infant outcomes improved significantly because of the care provided by the Frontier Nursing Service, and this set the stage for the flourishing profession of nurse-midwifery in our country today.
