Mashawa Afoaquah

Mother/Baby nurse, Preceptor

"My first child was born at Genesis West, when it was called Mercy Hospital. It was special for me to return as a nurse to where I started."

Tell us a little bit about you. What do you enjoy doing during your free time? What are your hobbies?

I enjoy family gatherings and taking my grandchildren to various places, like the Family Museum, Monkey Joe's and the park and spray grounds.  I like to listen to music and dance, particularly line dancing.

How long have you worked at the BirthCenter?

1 year and 2 months

What is your job/role at the BirthCenter?*

Mother/Baby nurse, Preceptor.

Why do you like working at the BirthCenter? What makes you the most proud?

I enjoy taking care of mothers and new babies and educating families on maternal and newborn care.

Why did you decide to work at the BirthCenter?

I relocated to the Quad Cities last June and wanted to continue my career as a Mother/Baby nurse. Also, my first child was born at Mercy Hospital, the predecessor of Genesis Medical Center’s West Campus. It was special for me to return as a nurse to the place I started. I felt like I did a 360.

Have you and a partner ever delivered at the BirthCenter? If so, tell us what you liked about the experience.

I’ve never delivered at the BirthCenter, but I am the mother of four children. After delivering my second child, I decided I wanted to take care of mothers and new babies.