FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 23, 2012

PRO-LIFE COMMISSION SEEKS TO BUILD SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR MOTHERS
WITH SPECIAL NEEDS UNBORN CHILDREN AND INFANTS

The Archdiocese of New York announced today that the Archdiocesan Pro-Life Commission is working to build a network of healthcare providers, social workers, chaplains, parents and psychologists to offer guidance, support, and medical care to couples who have been told that their unborn baby may have a severe or life-threatening birth defect.

The Commission is specifically looking for the following:
• Obstetricians (OB-Gyns) and perinatologists who are willing to provide supportive prenatal care to women given an adverse diagnosis
• Neonatologists who are willing to offer guidance about caring for newborns who are critically ill
• Family physicians and pediatricians who are willing to be a support to families of children born with disabilities
• Social workers, chaplains and psychologists who can help to coordinate resources for families and provide support
• Parents who have experienced an adverse diagnosis or who care for a child with a disability who would be willing to share their experiences with couples facing similar challenges

The names and contact information of those who serve as a part of this network will be kept strictly confidential. Referrals will be coordinated by the Family Life Office of the Archdiocese of New York and the Gianna Catholic Healthcare Center for Women.

To serve as a part of this network or for more information, contact Dr. Anne Nolte at the Gianna Healthcare Center at (212) 481-1219 or [email protected].

The Archdiocesan Pro-Life Commission was established one year ago by His Excellency, Cardinal-designate Timothy M. Dolan. The Pro-Life Commission assists Cardinal-designate Dolan and the Archdiocese in promoting a respect for the sanctity of all human life.

January 22nd was the 39th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion on demand in the United States.

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