Renee was born at Blacktown Hospital – now she works there as a midwife with her mum

FOR Jeanette Davies and Renee Keating, Blacktown Hospital holds a special place for their family.

Mother Jeanette gave birth to Renee in the very hospital they both now proudly work at as midwives, with a shared goal of empowering the women of western Sydney.

“My life took me in some different directions, but I always knew that I wanted to be a midwife like mum,” Renee said.

The two share a smile as they chat about how their passion for women’s health and caring for others has led them to fulfilling careers at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD).

Jeanette has been with the District for over 30 years, and says that the supportive environment has created a loving work community.

This is a sentiment Renee echoes – after all, she’s now working with some of the midwives who have watched her grow up.

“I spent a lot of time at Blacktown Hospital when I was little,” Renee said.

“I was always exposed to this environment, so it’s really nice to be able to come back and work here –especially because I know all of the midwives that work in the clinic.”

Renee is especially proud of the service that midwives like herself and her mum are providing the women of western Sydney.

With her own 11-year-old daughter at home –who has already started to express an interest in perhaps following the same career path – Renee says that her own experiences have helped her to better assist women through pregnancy and the transition to motherhood.

“I’m really proud to be able to advocate for women. In my role, I’m following women throughout their whole pregnancy and by being on call for the labor and birth, I’m developing a personal relationship with them.

“This means I can give them an experience that suits them too, because every woman is different. I’m empowering them and supporting them to have the best possible journey with us.”

Jeanette watches on proudly as Renee speaks about her work, and adds quietly: “I’m very proud of my daughter, both as a mother and as a fellow midwife”.

“I wouldn’t be the midwife I am today without mum,” Renee interjects.

“She’s my rock”.