Marita Howard
What's your name and role at MAMA?
Marita Howard, works as PPM at MAMA and have been there for almost 10 years
What inspired you to work at MAMA?
It was Jan Ireland who inspired initally to work at MAMA, she was my midwife over 23 years ago for my first birth. I always had great respect for my 2 midwives for Joels birth and the positive impact they both had during my first birthing experience. I was working at MMC at time and would run in to her often with her own private clients coming in to give birth. Every time I saw her, she would tell me excitedly about her plans to open her own midwifery clinic. It was the right time to move out of the system and embark into private practice when my youngest daughter started school. This was also the time I had started to feel completely disheartened by the hospital system; with the closure of the birth centre model, I had grown to love. It was my chance to make a difference and support women in the way I knew I could. I have worked in many areas over my long midwifery career but had been happiest when I had worked in the UK on a Community MW role and was able to experience continuity of care and attends my first home births.
What are you passionate about at MAMA?
I am passionate about being with women and families, supporting them through their journeys to motherhood. After having 3 very different birth experiences myself, I can appreciate the individual journeys other women embark and support them through their own.
What are your favourite things about your role?
I can meet so many different women and families, get to know them, have a good laugh and a cry. I love nothing more than to have a good chat and discover what is important for families which enables me to individualise their care.
Where would we find you outside of MAMA?
When I am not at work, you will find me at home with my hubby and 3 almost grown children. I love to listen to crime thrillers, podcasts and watch whatever takes my fancy on a choice of streaming devices. On a good day I love to walk around our local area or head to Cowes for a weekend away. I enjoy pottering in my new kitchen or heading out for a nice meal. I have 12 siblings, so not uncommon for a special family birthday or event to take me out for a day here and there. I have the privilege to be there for a good handful of family babies over the years too.