In just two months, Treva Gehrke’s family of six is set to expand to seven. Her doctor anticipates that her fifth baby might arrive early. Gehrke, who previously had a preterm delivery at 34 weeks with her daughter, is now facing additional complications.
“I’m dealing with heart issues, gestational diabetes, and a condition called bilobed placenta, which can lead to risks such as placental abruption and hemorrhaging,” Gehrke explained.
Her anxiety has been heightened by the recent announcement from Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne, which will end its labor and delivery services at the end of next month. The decision was made after careful consideration, as stated by Texas Health:
“We notified our employees last week and are assisting them in finding other positions within Texas Health. We have also reached out to expectant patients and will offer extra support. Texas Health Women’s Care in Cleburne will remain open for gynecologic surgeries. Obstetrical services will be available at nearby locations, including Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest Fort Worth, and Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South. The decision was influenced by the low number of deliveries.”
In response, a petition urging the hospital to reconsider has gained traction, citing concerns about reduced access to essential healthcare for women, particularly those in rural areas. The petition had over 1,400 signatures as of Friday.
Cassidy VanZandt, who was among the first to sign the petition, shared her experience. Three years ago, she delivered her daughter Raylei just minutes after leaving a doctor’s appointment. She had thought her water had broken and rushed back to Texas Health Cleburne, where Raylei was born shortly after arrival. Raylei’s heart rate was critically low at birth, but she was stabilized and transported to Cook Children’s Hospital.
VanZandt later learned that she had experienced placental abruption and worries that had it taken longer to reach the hospital, the outcome might have been different.
With four children at home, Gehrke is concerned about having to drive 40 to 45 minutes to reach the nearest hospital during delivery. The prospect of facing serious complications or pain while traveling such a distance is daunting.
Texas Health will cease labor and delivery services on August 30th, but Texas Health Women’s Care in Cleburne will continue to offer gynecologic care.
