In just two months, Treva Gehrke’s family of six will expand to seven, but she’s facing multiple complications. Her doctor predicts that her fifth baby will arrive early, as her previous daughter was born at 34 weeks. Gehrke is also dealing with heart issues, gestational diabetes, and a condition known as bilobed placenta, which increases risks such as placental abruption and hemorrhaging.
Adding to her stress, Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne recently announced that it will end its labor and delivery services at the end of next month. The decision, made after careful consideration, was attributed to a low number of deliveries. However, the hospital will continue to offer gynecological care and surgery at the facility.
In a statement, Texas Health said they are working with employees to find new positions within the organization and providing support to pregnant patients. Obstetrical services will be available at other nearby locations, including Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth and Texas Health Huguley Hospital Fort Worth South.
The announcement has sparked a petition urging the hospital to reconsider, highlighting concerns about the impact on women, especially those in rural areas. As of Friday, the petition had garnered over 1,400 signatures.
Cassidy VanZandt, who signed the petition, shared her experience of having her daughter Raylei shortly after leaving a doctor’s appointment. She feared that a delayed arrival at the hospital could have resulted in a tragic outcome.
With four children already, Gehrke worries about the 40 to 45-minute drive to the nearest hospital when labor begins. Texas Health has stated that labor and delivery services will cease on August 30, but Texas Health Women’s Care in Cleburne will remain open for gynecological services.
