Insights from a UNM Alumna

Reflecting on her journey, Grassham highlights the remarkable advancements in neonatal care that have facilitated the survival of infants born prematurely, some as early as 22 weeks. However, alongside these medical achievements, Grassham remains committed to prioritizing the emotional well-being of families and the critical role of maternal mental health in the broader context of maternal child health.

As Grassham navigated her education path, she found herself drawn to the interdisciplinary nature of the MCH certificate program at UNM. The program, aimed at connecting different areas of expertise within health care, provided Grassham with an opportunity to delve into diverse viewpoints and discover creative solutions to intricate problems. Through her coursework, Grassham gained insights into Title 5 funding, a crucial federal program under the Social Security Act. Title 5 funding is designed to support state-level initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes. It enables states to provide essential services such as prenatal care, infant health programs, and support for children with special health care needs. Grassham also studied the intricacies of legislative advocacy concerning health care policies and gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural dimensions that influence maternal child health practices and interventions.

One of the program’s highlights for Grassham was its online format, which accommodated her rigorous schedule as a working professional. Even with the virtual setting, Grassham found ample opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among her peers, emphasizing the program’s inclusive and interactive nature.

Grassham states “I still learned just as much from the other students that I had exposure to in this class even though we were all online.” 

Throughout her maternal child health journey, Grassham’s dedication extended beyond academic pursuits, and she actively sought avenues to translate her newfound knowledge into tangible support for her patients and community. From advocating for early health literacy programs in the neonatal intensive care unit to connecting families with essential resources, Grassham exemplifies the transformative impact of maternal child health education in real-world settings.

“Every interaction counts, and each family we support is a step toward improving outcomes for all,” Grassham says.

Looking ahead, Grassham envisions a future where maternal child health practitioners play a pivotal role in building resilient families and communities. She emphasizes the importance of harnessing collective expertise and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address the multifaced challenges in maternal and child health.

Grassham’s journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring maternal child health practitioners. Her steadfast commitment to holistic care, coupled with her proactive approach to learning and advocacy, exemplifies the transformative potential of maternal child health education. As health care landscapes evolve, practitioners such as Grassham are prepared to advocate for the welfare of future generations, embodying the essence of compassionate and comprehensive maternal child health care.

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