Read In Fullscreen - Sagua Mañagu + MPG

Jul.Aug. 2015
Vol. 14 #4
4 Years
in the
Making
The Birth of
Sagua Mañagu
We’re Here
to Stay
Fun to
Be 15
True Value
at the Core
They’re Not
Babies Anymore
editor's letter
15 years . . .
Hard as it may be to believe, I can remember when I was 15.
I remember when my kids were 15.
Sagua Mañagu turning 15? That’s a special moment to add to my
memory bank.
Dr. Bordallo, Dr. Bez, Flori and I have spent nearly two decades
getting to this moment. Dr. Bordallo will tell you, “It’s a good feeling
certainly.” Dr. Bez finds the experience, “Gratifying.” Flori sums it
up in one word, “Awesome.” We all feel a deep sense of gratitude
for how the community, our patients and their families have embraced
us and our vision.
In this special issue of MAÑAGU, we share our stories about:
• 4 years of planning;
• the day that Sagua Mañagu and Joan Fernandez were born;
• nine women who are committed to our philosophy and have
helped carry out our mission for all these years; and
• the fundamental belief that remaining focused on our patients is
essential to good healthcare.
Sagua Mañagu’s 15th anniversary is a celebration of community, of
family, of a belief in service for others.
Un Dangkulo na Si Yu’us Maase
Maraming Salamat Po
Kinisou
Domo arigato
Thank you very much for supporting us all these years.
And thank you for reading MAÑAGU. It’s certainly our pleasure to
bring it to you.
Mañagu
Editorial Contributions
Jeanie Bamba
CaRla Bordallo
Anna Cepeda-Ainbinder
Joan Fernandez
Anne Fox
Lina Leon Guerrero
Barbara Mafnas
Leah Malanum
Noa Jay Pablo
Eileen Pascua
Gerlie Redila
Tammy San Agustin
Brandon-John Waki
Owners
Annie Bordallo, MD
Ellen Bez, MD
Managing Partners
Lina Leon Guerrero
Flori Sanchez
Published by
Sagua Mañagu
A division of MPG
Editing & Layout
David Castro
Carlene Okiyama
Cover by
Adztech & Public Relations Inc.
Copyright © 2015 by
Sagua Mañagu
A division of MPG
All rights reserved.
No portion of this magazine may
be reprinted without prior
written permission.
We welcome your comments at:
info@saguamañagu-mpg.com
or contact us at
www.saguamanagu-mpg.com
2 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
10
20
6
26
In this Issue
4 Years in the Making 6
The Birth of Sagua Mañagu 10
True Value at the Core 12
About the cover:
Fun to Be 15 20
They’re Not Babies Anymore 22
After 15 years, Dr. Annie Bordallo, Dr. Ellen Bez,
Flori Sanchez and Lina Leon Guerrero continue
saying “Yes” to the possibility of improving
services for women and their families.
Photo by Adztech & Public Relations Inc.
We’re Here to Stay 26
regular features
Congratulations to all the Families
Born at Sagua Mañagu 30
Barb’s Corner 32
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 3
Lamaze and More in 2015
Instructor Barbara C. Mafnas, BSN, LCCE, CLC, IBCLC, HB
Lamaze® Classes: A combination of relaxation,
breathing techniques, comfort measures and
position changes that are designed to help
during labor and birth. We stress that partners
are essential throughout labor, birth, postpartum
and parenting. Please bring: a pillow, blanket,
bath towel (for foot soaks), tennis ball, snacks
and water. Moms need to wear shorts or slacks
and comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing some
floor work!
Baby Bonding: Designed to help mothers and
fathers gain confidence as they pick up on
feeding cues and other needs of their babies.
The class includes the first hours after birth,
breast feeding and feeding cues, baby bath time
and massage.
Prenatal Care: Covers journey of pregnancy
from positive pregnancy test to third trimester.
The class Includes prenatal care, nutrition,
common discomforts, early warning signs and
sexual activity. Also covered are the benefits of
rest and exercise.
Orientation: A class specially designed for parents
who choose Sagua Mañagu, covering pregnancy
from positive pregnancy test through third trimester,
then onto childbirth and newborn care. The first
part of the class includes procedures and care
during pregnancy, good nutrition and exercise as
well as answers to common questions regarding
discomforts, early warning signs, sexual activity,
the effects of alcohol, smoking and recreational
drugs. The second part is an orientation to
Sagua Mañagu that includes patient rights and
responsibilities, the differences between birthing
centers and hospitals; family involvement; newborn
care here and what to expect when you go home.
Baby Daddy Class: Designed exclusively for dads
to help increase their confidence in becoming a
new dad. Dads will have better understanding of
his woman, recognize the cla ssic signs of labor
and what to do, verbalize 3 feeding cues of the
newborn, understand relationships and dynamics,
and understand his role as the new dad.
Parenting & Safety: This 2-hour class helps parents
understand the importance of interacting with their
baby and understanding growth and development
to provide realistic expectations. The class will
also use open discussion to talk about subjects
as discipline, prevention of Sudden Infant Death
Syndrome, and Shaken Baby Syndrome. Life skills
such as basic infant CPR will be included.
Sibling Class: Designed for parents and children.
Discussion of child involvement in the labor
process and emotional aspects of being with mom
at this time. Also covers mother/child relationship
changes and expectations. Film “Lizzie and the
Baby” addresses relationship changes, doctors’
visits with mom, animated growth of the fetus,
how baby is born, what new babies look like,
what they can do, how to hold them and more!
Class Fees:
Lamaze $60
Lamaze Refresher Class $40
Baby Bonding, Prenatal Care, Orientation,
Sibling Class, Baby Daddy, & Parenting & Safety
are offered courtesy of Marianas Physicians
Group and Sagua Mañagu-
All classes are held at MPG/Sagua Mañagu Classroom
Website: www.saguamanagu-mpg.com • Phone: 647-1417 or 1418
September 2015
August 2015
TUES
THURS
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
4
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series Traditional Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
6
7
• Lactation
Consult
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
8
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Crash Course Lamaze
12p-6p
• Lamaze Refresher
3p-6p
11
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series
Traditional
Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
13
• Lactation
Consult
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
14
• Sibling Class
5p-6p
15
• Breastfeeding Social/Support
9a-12p
• Prenatal Care
12p-3p
• Baby Bonding
3p-5p
18
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series
Traditional
Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
20
21
• Sibling Class
5p-6p
• Custom
Lamaze
(2-night class)
6p-9p
22
• Breastfeeding Social/Support 9a-12p
• Orientation
12p-3p
• Custom Lamaze
(2-night class)
6p-9p
25
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series
Traditional Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
27
28
• Lactation
Consult
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
29
• Breastfeeding Social/Support 9a-12p
• Baby Daddy
12p-3p
• Parenting & Safety
3p-5p
TUES
WED
THURS
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
2
• Lactation
Consult
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
3
4
5
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
9a-12p
• Crash Course Lamaze
12p-6p
• Lamaze Refresher
3p-6p
8
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
9
10
• Custom
Lsmaze
(2-night class)
6p-9p
11
• Custom
Lsmaze
(2-night class)
6p-9p
16
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
9a-12p
• Prenatal Care
12p-3p
• Baby Bonding
3p-5p
15
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
16
17
18
19
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
9a-12p
21
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series Traditional Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
23
24
25
• Lactation
Consult
5p-6p
• Orientation
6p-8:30p
• Sibling Class
5p-6p
26
• Breastfeeding Social/
Support
9a-12p
• Baby Daddy
12p-3p
• Parenting & Safety
3p-5p
29
• Breastfeeding
Social/Support
5p-6:30p
• 5-Class Series Traditional Lamaze
6:30p-8:30p
30
Schedule subject to change without notice
4 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
your pregnancy
s
r
a
e
Y
4
g
n
i
k
a
M
e
h
t
in
errero
Leon Gu
By Lina
A normal pregnancy has a 40-week
gestation period. Imagine if it took 4 years! That’s the
length of time it took to bring Sagua Mañagu to life.
And instead of monthly appointments, there were weekly
meetings for the four of us: Dr. Annie Bordallo, Dr. Ellen
Bez, Flori Sanchez and me. We met every Sunday night,
then switched to Monday nights, hashing through a myriad
of details over good home-cooked meals prepared by Dr.
Bez.
As the vision crystallized and the tasks were identified,
we divided up the workload. Dr. Bordallo and Flori met
with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to learn
as much as they could about starting a new business. As
the owners, Dr. Bordallo and Dr. Bez met with the Bank of
Guam, the Small Business Administration and our landlord,
Ada’s Trust & Investment. It was my job to meet with the
architects, engineers and contractors.
Support for the Big Idea
It was in 1996 that Dr. Bordallo first began talking
about her vision. She was part of a physician group and
considered starting her own private practice. She wanted
the latitude, the freedom and the responsibility for providing
healthcare in a manner that was focused on giving her
patients the best experience possible.
Part of Dr. Bordallo’s plan was to tap into the experience
and expertise of others. She started by getting the support of
her partner, Dr. Bez. Both docs were working for PMC Isla at
the time and shared a similar approach to healthcare.
She contacted me, a 17-year government employee
who was in charge of the hospital’s planning department at
the time. She talked with her best friend, Flori, who knew
Dr. Bordallo ga
ined support fo
r her vision from
Bank of Guam
the community
and Small Busi
, including the
ness Administr
ation.
how to manage money and had been doing so as a
long time employee with DFS. Then Dr. Bordallo rallied her
classmates: Joanna Duenas, savvy in communications and
marketing; and Liza Provido, an architect.
Seeking counsel and advice from trusted elders in the
6 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
your pregnancy
community, Dr. Bordallo went
to her classmate Liz Ysrael’s
dad, Al Ysrael. A successful
developer and entrepreneur, Mr.
Ysrael told Doc not to be afraid
to borrow money.
So off she went to the Bank
of Guam. The late Jesus Leon
Guerrero, Bank of Guam’s
founder and Chairman of the
Board, didn’t need to see the
financial details. Mr. Leon
Guerrero recognized that a
young, Chamorro physician had
a viable vision for serving our
community. He instructed his son
and then Bank President, the late
Tony Leon Guerrero, to help find
a way to finance the project.
More than a decade later,
Sagua Mañagu is still a Bank of
Guam customer.
Dr. Bordallo’s sketch reflects the elements of her vision, including patient
education, nutritional teaching and the birthing center.
Executing the Plan
With a team in place and
financing secured, we had to
TUMON MEDICAL OFFICE
caring for your family…
accepting most insurance
same day appointments available
Edna V. Santos, M.D.
Board Certified, Pediatrics
Tel:649-PEDS (7337) • Fax: 649-7341
125 Carlos Lane, Carlos Heights, Upper Tumon
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 7
your pregnancy
find a place for our new birthing center. Location, location,
location! That’s what all the business books say is essential
to success. For us, that meant proximity to Dr. Bordallo’s
clinic and the hospital.
Our first choice was the Guam Medical Plaza. It was
brand new at the time, with ample space—on multiple
floors. And it was just a stone’s throw away from GMH.
We were so sure that’s where we would set up the birthing
center that we decided on the name Sagua Mañagu.
Dr. Bordallo’s dad loved to fish. He told her that there’s
an area along Alupang Bay where the fish lay their eggs.
It’s called Sagua Mañagu, which means “delivery bay”
in Chamorro. It was perfect since Guam Medical Plaza
overlooks Alupang Bay. So we latched onto the name.
But as we looked at different preliminary space plans
and sketches, the space didn’t quite meet our need to
accommodate not only Sagua Mañagu but also Dr. Bordallo
and Dr. Bez’s clinic, Marianas Physicians Group. That’s
when we heard about PeMar Place, a new facility built by
Ada’s Trust & Investment.
Dr. Bordallo contacted Sonny Ada. We were all
childhood friends: Doc and her brother, Sonny and his
sisters, Flori and me. Now we were going to do business
together. It seemed like a good fit then. It feels like a good
fit now.
The building was a shell, an empty canvas for Doc
and her classmate since the 1st grade, our architect Liza
Provido. Liza took Doc’s sketch, the health facility guidelines
that I gave her and the technical advice from biomedical
engineer John Benavente to design what thousands of
families have come to appreciate over the last 15 years:
seven beautiful, spacious birthing suites.
Special Delivery! Special Occasion!
It was July 2000 and the build-out was near completion.
Dr. Bordallo began training with our Sagua Mañagu’s
nursing staff, which at the time, was comprised of two
registered nurses, Anne Fox and Carla Bordallo. One of
Doc’s patients, Rizel Fernandez, had agreed to be our first
patient. Rizel was an OB nurse at GMH and comfortable
with childbirth and the idea of delivering outside the
hospital setting.
So while Dr. Bordallo and our nurses prepared for the
day that Rizel would go into labor, Dr. Bez and I enlisted
the aid of my sister Amanda in planning Sagua Mañagu’s
soft opening. Amanda’s day job was planning events for
the Hyatt. We were in excellent hands.
The event was intended to thank all those who had
helped and supported us as we set out on this wonderful
labor of love. We invited friends, families, dignitaries and
colleagues. Our moms, Annie Bordallo, Flo Sanchez and
Juanita Duenas joined Governor Gutierrez and Lt. Governor
Bordallo in cutting the ribbon. We had music, delicious food
and wines.
And if that wasn’t enough, Dr. Bordallo proudly
announced that early that morning, Sagua Mañagu
welcomed the safe arrival of Joan Marie Fernandez, a
healthy beautiful baby girl. Baby Joan was the sweetest
reflection of what we set out to do. And the timing of her
arrival coinciding with our soft opening, was the clearest
reminder that like most babies, they’ll come when they’re
ready, despite what we have planned.
8 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 9
The
Birth
of
Sagua
Mañagu
A recollection by Anne Fox, RN
and Carla Bordallo, RN
Anne:
Wow, has it really been 15 years since we
opened? Of course, I do remember quite a bit about that first
day, but some of it is lost to me in the mists of time!
Of course the birth of Sagua Mañagu (the laboring bit
of it) had started months before, probably years before with
Dr. Bordallo’s dream. But, the first delivery story began the
day before the first birth – July 19th, 2000. We had a staff
orientation day organized for our nursing staff. Most hadn’t
worked in L&D before, only Carla and I had experience
delivering babies (and Dr. Bordallo of course, she was quite
good at it already!) We were being trained by Barb Mafnas
in her classroom, the one she still uses for patient education.
Sometime during the day (I can’t remember quite when)
Dr. Bordallo told us we had our first labor patient. In fact
she was our only patient. I don’t think we’d planned to start
taking in patients until July.
Rizalina was a nurse who worked with Dr. Bordallo at
GMH and had agreed to be our experiment (very brave!)
Of course, she knew Dr. Bordallo to be a very competent
obstetrician and she knew Carla and I had L&D experience.
She also had a co-worker, Olive, who was willing to help
us during labor.
Rizalina (also known as Rizel) arrived in the afternoon
of the 19th after her bag of water broke at home. All the
new nurses were here in the building which was quite a
coincidence. I remember leaving the class and helping Rizel
settle into room 104 opposite the nurses’ station. After many
hours of not much happening Dr. Bordallo decided we
needed to
move things
along.
As a
low risk
birthing
center Dr.
Bordallo
had
decided that
it would
be OK to
Dr. Annie Bordallo poses with baby Joan and Rizel Fernandez
use Pitocin
right after delivery.
in certain
situations
for stimulating contractions, but we hadn’t really anticipated
using it on our very first patient! So, after gathering all the
supplies we would need, we started our first IV at Sagua.
As the sun began to sink on our first day as Guam’s
First Birthing Center we realized we didn’t have the drapes
up at the windows yet. The drapes weren’t arriving for
another week. We only had sheers, which was fine until it
got dark outside. Oh dear, now what?! So we taped some
blue delivery table covers up at the window. Just call me
MacGyver!
Everything else was going pretty smoothly. Dr. Bordallo
and Lina our GM were here and in and out of the room
to keep an eye on the progress; and Rizalina was coping
well. A few hours after dark it started to dawn on us that I
10 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
your baby
was the only nurse here and I’d been here all day. Although
the labor was progressing, it was going pretty slowly and
there was no telling when the delivery would happen.
Finally, I asked Lina “Um, who’s taking over from me?” We
hadn’t thought that far ahead, we were just so pleased at
having our first patient!
So, that’s how Carla got the very first night shift at
Sagua! She was the only other nurse up to speed on taking
care of labor patients.
I left Rizalina laboring at around 11pm to go home and
get some rest.
I hear that “nurses make some of the
worst patients.” But that couldn’t be
furthest from the truth, as we all learned
the day Sagua Mañagu opened its doors
to our first patient.
Carla:
I hear that “nurses make some of the
worst patients.” But that couldn’t be furthest from the truth,
as we all learned the day Sagua Mañagu opened its doors
to our first patient.
During our orientation class Dr. Bordallo reported we
would be getting our first patient later that day, so there
was lots of excitement and nervous energy. Our soon-tobe patient was walking around and would come in when
the clinic closed or her contractions became a little more
consistent. Our “nurse-patient” was Rizel who had worked
with Dr. Bordallo at GMH and had insisted on becoming
our first guest. She shared our excitement about the mission,
equipment and birthing rooms. (Labor/Delivery/Recovery/
Postpartum rooms were – and still are – unique to Sagua
Mañagu.)
It was July 19, 2000 at 3:45pm when Rizel walked in
with her husband Mike to start the process of birthing their
baby. Dr. Bordallo’s dream was happening and we were in
it!
Dr. Bordallo, Anne Fox and I stayed for our first day
of work at Sagua. We were later joined by Rizel’s friend
Olive, an LPN (licensed practical nurse) from the hospital’s
OB ward, who also agreed to stay and help out overnight.
For the next 30+ hours one or two of us was at Rizel’s side.
It wasn’t until 11pm that Anne went home to sleep before
returning for the next shift. Dr. Bordallo sent me to rest in
one of the empty rooms and woke me around 2am because
she got called to another delivery at GMH.
Other than leaving Rizel for the delivery at the hospital,
Dr. Bordallo was there to nurture Rizel and her new nursing
staff. She oversaw the logistics of actually having a patient
at her Birthing Center. There were a lot of laughs about
missing curtains, needing an infusion pump, our paper chart
format and the lack of a coffee maker. There was also a lot
of support . . . Dr. Blancaflor, Dr. Bez, Lina Leon Guerrero,
Flori Sanchez and staff from GMH stopped by and offered
support. It was like two babies were being born. All the
planning, conception and laboring culminated in two births
on July 20, 2000 at 0524 hours: our first baby and Guam’s
First Birthing Center were born.
It’s hard to believe it’s been 15 years. Happy Birthday
Joan! Happy Birthday Sagua! Wishing you both many more! Anne:
I walked in the door the next morning
at 05:24 am. I know the exact time because as I walked
past the nurses’ station I heard that very first cry of a
new life. Darn! I’d missed it. Sagua’s very first delivery! I
was so close! As I walked in the room, Dr. Bordallo was
triumphantly holding up the baby! I stood by Flori Sanchez
who was taking those precious first pictures of a new baby,
a new mom, a new dad and a new Guam endeavor.
Sagua Mañagu was born.
I walked in the door the next morning at
05:24 am. I know the exact time because as
I walked past the nurses’ station I heard that
very first cry of a new life. Darn! I’d missed it.
Sagua’s very first delivery! I was so close!
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 11
at the
Every organization has its core values. At MPG and
Sagua Mañagu one of the things we value the most is
our core team. In July 2015, MPG and Sagua Mañagu
recognized nine women who have been a part of
our family for 15+ years. MAÑAGU is pleased to
recognize them as well.
12 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
Barbara Mafnas
BSN, LCCE, CLC, IBCLC
Initially hired in
1998 to set up MPG in
the Guam Medical Plaza, Barb
transitioned to Sagua Mañagu in
2000 as Patient Educator and was
tasked with designing all the
patient classes.
Before coming to Sagua, I worked for PMC for 7 years as
a staff nurse primarily in family practice and pediatrics.
This is where I found my passion for teaching as I would
talk to patients upon discharge.
I decided to join MPG and Sagua because
Dr. Bordallo values the same things I do as far as women’s
health and empowering women to make choices about
their healthcare. I felt it was a good match and could see
myself doing exactly what I wanted to do.
I started out teaching three classes and was
only certified in Lamaze. Today I boast about teaching 9
classes including a variety of Lamaze options. I now have
a Bachelors degree in nursing and am working toward my
masters. I am current in Lamaze certification and became
a Lactation Councilor (CLC) and a Lactation Consultant
(IBCLC) as well as an American Heart Association BLS
instructor. I teach not only patients but assist in staff
education as well.
My most memorable moment was co-teaching a
woman’s conference with Dr. Bordallo. I think this was the
first time she actually saw me in action. She stood at the
back of the room watching me with her arms folded and a
smile that told me how proud she was that I was part of her
team. Afterward, she hugged me and told me that I was
good! That meant a lot to me coming from her.
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 13
Anne Fox
RN
A part
of Sagua Mañagu
since the first day the
birthing center opened, Anne was
here the day baby Joan came into
the world on July 20, 2000.
I had worked at GMH for two years before starting at Sagua
Mañagu. I came to Guam in the 1990’s as a contract nurse in L&D
and have been here ever since.
In England where I trained, I’d assisted in home births with
trained midwives and knew how much more at ease women were
when they felt comfortable with their surroundings. Labors progressed
more naturally and babies were born into a calm, safe environment,
helped by highly trained professionals. Having a facility in Guam that
could replicate that environment was a wonderful opportunity.
In some ways Sagua Mañagu has changed very little over the
15 years we’ve been open. We are still true to our original mission
of providing a safe, homelike environment in which a woman may
deliver her baby surrounded by supportive family members as she
wishes.
We have increased our patient education side to offer more
classes and support groups.
Our team of nurses and birthing assistants has developed and
matured over the years. Many of us were quite new to labor room
and postpartum nursing when we opened. Now we have many
decades of experience between us to help our patients through a
challenging (and very rewarding) time in their lives.
I remember one delivery in particular where the patient had about
15 family members in the room for the delivery. With the baby’s first
cry came a great cheer, laughter and applause from his new aunts,
uncles, cousins, grandparents and extended family. They heard it all
the way in the clinic next door. It was a lot of fun!
I was working at Island Surgical Center 19971999. That’s where I met Dr. Bez for the first time (she
had come over to the clinic inquiring about giving an
injection). Barb Mafnas and I were chatting in the parking
lot at the old MPG location, and somehow one thing led
to another and just took off from there.
15 years is a long time. Things evolve for the better
over the course of time. Change is good. It has definitely
strengthened my resolve. The “family” atmosphere has
remained constant. Yes, we have our moments as in any
family, however, we manage and stay true with one
another.
There isn’t any one moment that I remember…
it’s more like “all” moments. Whenever, I see a patient
regardless of the reason, I feel that I am in the right place
at the right time and I try to remember those encounters.
It’s what makes nursing an awesome adventure!
Anna
joined MPG in 2000
and served as Clinic Manager
for 12 years until she decided to
return to direct patient care
as a patient educator for
Anna Cepeda-Ainbinder
nutrition.
RN
14 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
Tammy San Agustin
Tammy
began working at
MPG in 1999 as the clinic’s
only medical biller. Now she works
alongside two others as a leader in
MPG/Sagua Mañagu’s Patient
Affairs office.
Prior to working at MPG, I worked at The Doctors’ Clinic
from 1991 – February 1999. After leaving TDC, I
worked for a collection agency thinking it’s something I
wanted, but soon after I knew it wasn’t for me.
A lot has changed over the years… from having NO
clinic on Wednesdays—which gave staff time to catch up
on filing records and insurance claims or allowed us to
take an extended lunch to celebrate a birthday; to having
an Internal Medicine provider Dr. Rosie VillagomezPalisson—who now resides in Vancouver, Washington—
and Pediatrics provider Dr. Maria Blancaflor—who
opened her private practice, MPG Pediatrics, down
the street from us; to MPG becoming a women’s only
specialty clinic.
I believe in our MPG Mission… Marianas Physicians
Group is committed to providing quality healthcare
to women on Guam. We strive to deliver care with
compassion, respecting and being attentive to the
individual needs of our patients. We work to build lasting
relationships with our patients, to support their health
maintenance throughout their lives.
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 15
Jeanie Bamba
Jeanie
began working at
MPG in 1999 when it was
located at Guam Medical Plaza.
She started at the Front Desk and
now works in the Patient Affairs office
assisting patients with questions
regarding billing and insurance.
I worked with The Doctor’s Clinic as a Front desk/Appointment
clerk before MPG. When I started, there was just Dr. Annie
Bordallo and Dr. Ellen Bez. Dr. Rosie Villagomez-Pallison joined
months later. Then in May 2000 we moved to PeMar Place and
of course our practice grew once again as we opened up to
Pediatrics when Dr. Maria Blancaflor joined our MPG family. So
things have changed throughout the years working with OB/GYN,
Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Now, our main focus is Women’s
Healthcare and Obstetrics.
I’ve known AB and EB from GMH softball. When they took
me into their practice I made sure that I did my best to be a
good employee so they would keep me. They both are LOVING,
CARING and GENEROUS mentors with VERY BIG HEARTS. I LOVE
that they take care of ME, the rest of the STAFF and also think of
my FAMILY! I have not only one “most memorable” moment but two. The
first one was on 11-3-1999. I delivered my one and only baby
girl JeannMarie on Dr. Bordallo’s birthday. At that time Doc was
preparing to go off-island so my girl knew I had to deliver her
before Doc left. The second memorable moment was our trip to
Niseko, Japan in March of this year. It was a weekend trip that I
will never forget because I finally felt snow for the first time in my
43 years of life; I learned to ski even though I had the hardest time
putting them ski boots on and they were heavy to walk in; and I
enjoyed my stay in Cisco Moon! We need to do that again! Thank
you very much AB and EB for your generosity and hospitality as
always.
I also want to thank our patients for choosing MPG/Sagua
Mañagu as your healthcare facility and allowing us to take care
of you. It’s because of you that we are where we are today. Refer
your friends and family to us. We are more than happy to help
and assist in any way! God Bless!
I was a team leader at Regency Club, at the Hyatt Regency
Guam when I first started working at MPG. I worked both
jobs for a couple of years before I decided to join MPG/
Sagua Mañagu full time.
Through time, I have learned a lot in terms of patient
care. I have developed a sense of family with the company
and the people I work with. Through this experience I
continued with my studies and became an LPN (licensed
practical nurse).
The most memorable moment was when
Gerlie Redila
we went to Niseko Japan in March 2015.
We had so much fun playing and skiing in LPN
the snow—the first time for me.
We have professional and caring
Gerlie began working with
providers and nurses. If you want to experience
MPG in June 2000. She started
the best women’s care and service on Guam,
as a part-time Medical Assistant
come see us!!
after she finished her Associate Degree.
Gerlie continued her education and
later became a licensed practical
nurse.
16 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
I was working as a temporary hire medical assistant for Dr. Sagisi
& Dr. Batoyon. I had gained an interest in maternal child health
after completing a rotation in Labor and Delivery during college,
and hoped one day to work in the field. When a college friend
mentioned that a birthing center was open and hiring, I took the
opportunity to request an application and prayed that I would get
hired.
After all these years, I am considered one of the “lifers”
and I plan to stay for as long as I am able to. The friendliness
and teamwork of the staff and management plus the smiles and
satisfaction of the patients and their family members make me proud
to say that I work for a company who serves their mission. I work
for a company who treats not only our patients with family oriented
care but the staff as well. I feel very much connected to my Sagua
Mañagu family as they have been there with me from the beginning,
fresh college graduate to now a mother of three. I look forward to
more wonderful years to share with my Sagua Mañagu/MPG family.
Every day at Sagua is a memorable moment. I always pray that
labor and delivery are smooth and safe for all expectant mothers. It’s
always heartwarming when I am present and able to witness new life
coming into the world.
We have had many patients come back to seek women’s health/
prenatal care with MPG and to deliver their second through sixth
baby at Sagua. I believe our patients come back to us because
they are satisfied with the family oriented, nurturing care they have
received. Patient satisfaction is a guaranteed plus! Over the years,
we, at Sagua/MPG have stood by our mission, one patient, one
family at a time.
Leah Malanum
Having
just completed a
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
at UOG, Leah joined Sagua Mañagu as
a birthing assistant in August 2000. Her
strong organizational skills and creativity
have led her to take on additional
responsibilities related operations and
MAÑAGU Magazine.
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 17
Eileen Pascua
Eileen
started working
at Sagua Mañagu on
September 4, 2000 as a birthing
assistant. With years of experience
and professional growth, Eileen has
taken on more responsibilities and
doubles as a management assistant
when she’s not on the floor.
I had just graduated from UOG and was working as
a temporary receptionist at the Individual Assurance
Company. I enjoyed my rotation in the GMH Labor &
Delivery unit, and when I heard that Sagua Mañagu
was hiring, I knew that was where I wanted to work.
I was so happy when I learned that I got the job at
Sagua.
Not much has changed in the care and services
that we provide for our patients. We continue to
offer quality family-oriented care, which is what we
pride ourselves in. I appreciate being able to witness
and be a part of our patients’ special moments of
bringing their beautiful babies into this world, and I
love working with the staff and management of both
Sagua Mañagu and MPG. We all work together as
a team. I’m truly blessed to be working alongside
professional, loving, caring, helpful, and supportive
people. We are like one big happy family.
I’ve had many memorable moments here at
Sagua Mañagu. I’ve delivered all three of my children
here. However, one that I will never forget was when
the staff and providers of both Sagua Mañagu and
MPG came together to help my family and me raise
funds when I had to undergo treatment and surgery
after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Without
their love, support and prayers, I don’t know how I
would have made it through. I am forever grateful for
my Sagua Mañagu and MPG Family! They are the
BEST!
I was working at home with a 17-month old, 5- and
7- year old doing Utilization Review for GMHP (Guam
Memorial Health Plan, a health maintenance organization)
when I first heard about Sagua Mañagu. It was an
exciting concept. I had worked at Sharp Grossmont
Women’s Health Center, one of the first LDRP facilities in
San Diego, before I moved back to Guam. I loved the
idea for Guam.
Fifteen years later, I’m still here because I never feel
like I’m going to a “job.” It’s my favorite specialty; the
people and patients are wonderful and very thankful
we’re here; the staff and management are a great group
of people; and the facility is very nice.
There are a lot of great memorable moments and a
few not so great moments that come to mind. What stands
out are the “returnees” that say “Hey, you helped me with
our 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th...7th baby!” You can’t compare
that.
This center is the brainchild of Dr. Bordallo. Every
aspect of running Sagua Mañagu starting with the
patient, the Providers, staff, equipment and facility is
geared toward caring for the women and families of our
island. She individualizes every patient, every family,
Carla
every staff member. “Everyone deserves the best” is a
RN
philosophy that guides the birthing center. I think that’s
why we have so many returnees and why so many stay.
Bordallo
18 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
Carla was at Sagua
Mañagu even before it
opened, receiving and organizing
supplies; setting up and stocking the
rooms. Her first official day of work
was July 19, 2000 when Sagua’s first
patient walked through the doors.
your child
Fun to Be 15!
On Saturday August 1, 2015
Sagua Mañagu’s anniversary celebration
culminated with its first annual kids carnival.
Free games, prizes, entertainment and treats
were enjoyed by one and all.
your child
your tween
They’re Not
Babies
Anymore
Mañagu caught up with three of
Sagua Mañagu’s “babies” from
2000. Oh, how they’ve grown!
Noa Jay Pablo Mantanona
14 Years Old
December 02, 2000
5:55am
Sagua Mañagu
Dr. Meadows with assistance from Dr. Bordallo
I have an older sister Cristie Joi 20; younger
sister Paige Nicole 12 and my baby brother
Jonah Riley 2. My younger sister and brother
were both born at Sagua as well.
I will be heading into
ninth grade at St. Paul
Christian School and
have had the pleasure
of spending my middle
school years at San
Vicente and Guahan
Academy, Guam’s first
Charter School. Playing
football since I was 10
years old on the Northern
Falcons Youth Football
Team, I’ve come to love
the sport and wish to be
in the NFL. I look forward
to finishing high school
and moving on to college
or joining the military. I
enjoy spending time playing video games, but
also enjoy family time eating out, watching
movies, and hanging out with my cousins even if
it’s just hanging around at home.
Never too old for the Magic Kingdom! Noa
stands tall at Tokyo Disneyland, January 2015.
22 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
your tween
Brandon-John Waki
14 years old
December 5, 2000
2:16pm
Alice Leliukas, CNM
by too quickly, almost like it never even
happened. I kept myself busy playing
games with my friends and sometimes
even met up with them to catch a movie
and eat after that, just to hang out. My first year of high school
was pretty good. Freshman
year went by really quick
for me. I am looking
forward to Sophomore year,
to see what other challenges
I have ahead of me.
As for the funniest
moment, I pretty much had
funny moments every single
day I spent at school. My
friends and I would always
think of a funny topic and
talk about it for hours. When one person laughs,
it is just a chain reaction. That is one of the reasons I
look forward to going back
to school, besides learning.
Summer for me went
Dislikes? The new school year. They
will be adding 30 more minutes to our
time. But I guess this will work out, only
because it will
make the school
year shorter. So
that is not too bad
after all. Also,
how we have to
use mesh bags.
But those are
rules, and we just
have to go with it.
Hobbies?
Playing games
online with my
friends and
cousins. 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 23
your tween
Joan Marie Fernandez
15 years old
July 20, 2000
5:24am
Dr. Annie Bordallo
My summer has not
been that productive.
But recently, my family
went on a trip to
Japan and Singapore
which was really fun
because I had never
been to Japan before
and also because I
really enjoy going to
Singapore. Despite
the trip, I actually
enjoy staying home,
relaxing in my bed
and enjoying the
silence.
As a freshman at the Academy of
Our Lady of Guam, my first year of
high school was a fun and unique
experience. Academy operated very
differently from the former middle school
I went to. The academics were much
more challenging which is actually a
good thing because I was learning
something new every day.
There were a lot of fun things that
took place during my freshman year.
The Frosh was a party for freshmen
Likes, Dislikes &
to bond and have fun. There was the
Hobbies:
Weiner Roast, which was a student body
I like eating pochon
activity, for all the students. It had a
chicken, watching
military theme, entertainment and a lot
Netflix and sleeping.
of games which all the classes competed
I dislike spiders,
in. Then after, there were s’mores which
horror movies,
was my favorite part of the day.
waking up early,
My
and using my phone
favorite event
too much. For my
of all was
hobbies right now,
Songfest.
Songfest is
where all
the classes
present
Clockwise from top: Joan is
musical
all smiles after her class takes
performances
2nd place at Songfest. Joan
and go head(far right) enjoys Singapore
to-head to
with her sister, Veronica, and
see which
her parents, Mike and Rizel
performance
Fernandez. Joan’s first trip to
is better.
Japan.
That’s when
the strangest
and most
unexpected
thing of
I like to fish
the whole
in my family’s
school year
property, play
happened.
basketball, sleep
Our class
for 10 hours,
won 2nd
and swim. I’ve
place in
also developed
Songfest for
a liking for
best musical performance! It was really exciting because
photography so
Freshmen never really win anything since we’re still new
every now and then I take pictures on my Polaroid.
to the school and people don’t really expect much from us.
Hopefully in the next few years, we can improve and one
day win Songfest.
24 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
for you
We’re Here to Stay
This anniversary edition of MAÑAGU wouldn’t be complete without
hearing from the two women who took their vision of patient care and created Guam’s first
birthing center. Dr. Annie Bordallo and Dr. Ellen Bez have invested their time, energy and
resources to establish a model of care on Guam that will last for years to come. MAÑAGU
asked them to share their insights on Sagua Mañagu’s first 15 years and its future.
What does it feel like—to know that it’s been 15
years since Sagua first opened?
AB:It’s a good feeling certainly. We’re a small business,
and most small businesses close during the first year.
So it says something, that we’ve made it to 15 years.
EB:Gratifying. To know that Guam’s families have
embraced Sagua Mañagu in the way they have. We
have seen over 6,800 deliveries since we opened. It’s
wonderful to be a part of all those families.
Let’s Start at the Beginning
How did you come up with the idea of a birthing
center?
AB:The hospital where I trained had LDRPs (labor/
delivery/recovery/postpartum). They were just
becoming popular at the time. When I returned to
Guam, I found that we were using the traditional
model. Patients labored in one room; delivered
in another; and recovered in yet another. And at
the time we began talking about a birthing center,
the hospital’s deliveries were approaching 400
per month. Moms often labored and recovered in
hallways.
Knowing that pregnancy and childbirth aren’t
necessarily medical events, but most often, healthy,
natural events, I explored the idea of a birthing
center. It would alleviate some of the stress at the
hospital and give families a proven alternative.
What did you envision?
AB:A family friendly environment for healthy women with
low risk pregnancies to deliver their babies, without
a lot of medical intervention that I didn’t think was
necessary. Yet, we would have the standard pain
medicines and monitoring interventions if it was
necessary or that our moms might request. Also,
providing a beautiful facility with all the amenities that
26 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
the hospital did not have was very attractive to our
moms and families.
What did you think of the idea?
EB:It was a daunting task to create a hybrid model
birthing center that provided a warm, home-like
setting, but had the same type of equipment that
is used in the hospital. Annie created a perfect
mix by blending services available at the hospital
with a beautiful, family friendly facility. I knew
it would be a challenge, but we all believed in
Annie’s philosophy of providing our community an
alternative to delivering in the hospital.
Today & Tomorrow
Now that you’ve been open for 15 years,
how does the experience compare with your
expectations?
AB: We began planning for the birthing center
when there were close to 400 deliveries a month.
Just before we opened, there was a nationwide
military base realignment with Guam included.
The ship repair facility (SRF) closed and many
young members of the island’s workforce were
recruited to work in Las Vegas and California.
As much of Guam’s young population moved off
island, we saw the number of monthly deliveries
drop from 400 to 200.
There was no planning for that huge shift in
demographics.
How has Sagua changed over the last 15
years?
EB:Name recognition, for one. When we first
opened, I could barely pronounce the name
Sagua Mañagu. Today, most people who you ask
will know what and where Sagua is.
Another thing is that we were eventually able to
open Sagua Mañagu to Public Health patients. I
think that by giving everyone access and a choice
has been a great community service.
How has it stayed the same?
EB:We’ve stayed true to the original idea. I think
it’s nice that we’ve been able to stay true to our
philosophy all these years.
AB:And we still have our core employees. Anne
(Fox) and Barb (Mafnas) have really developed
2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015 • MAÑAGU • 27
the philosophy over the years. Through training
and taking advantage of opportunities to stay
updated, they continue to find ways to incorporate
the birthing center philosophy of low intervention
and patient focus into the way we provide care. For
example, it was our nursing team who introduced
and successfully implemented “The Golden Hour” to
foster and increase breastfeeding and maternal-baby
bonding. That’s not something that we (the managing
partners) thought to do.
Your Patients
Speaking of your patients, what kind of
experience were/are you hoping your patients
have at Sagua Mañagu?
AB:We want our patients to experience childbirth as a
natural event that can be shared with their family and
friends, whomever they decide that to be. I try to
encourage my patients to let their sisters, daughters
and nieces in for the delivery because it may be the
only opportunity for them to witness such a wonderful
event.
How do you continue to focus on your patients in
light of the changing landscape of healthcare?
EB:By making our patients active participants. When
we’re with our patients, we focus on their health while
being conscious of rising healthcare costs—for them
personally and the community as a whole.
AB:By staying true to our patient focus despite the
challenges and changes in healthcare, and believing
in a model that works.
The challenge is recruiting like-minded professionals;
having patients and professionals alike buy into the
notion that patient-focused care works. It can be
tempting to look for the latest technology to diagnose
or treat a condition. But ultimately, it’s what can the
patient do to help herself be healthier?
As you look ahead to the next 15 years, what do
you see?
AB:Despite the changes in the business of healthcare,
staying focused on patients is what works. If we
continue to do that, we’ll still be here 15 years from
now.
Concerned about
your child’s
What have you heard back from your patients
about their experience?
HEARING?
AB:We use patient feedback to help us better meet their
needs. When we get that feedback during their stay
with us, we talk about options with our patients and
let them choose what makes them most comfortable.
By and large, the feedback has been positive. There
are families who have had four or five children here.
The Next 15 Years
The landscape of healthcare is changing. How
will that affect Sagua Mañagu?
AB:We’re from here. Guam is our home. Our children,
nephews and nieces are raised here. So we’re here
to stay, for our families, our patients, our community.
We can see that the birthing center model is here
to stay as well. The new hospital, GRMC, has
designed its rooms much like ours. And GMH has
shared their plans to create birthing rooms as well.
Sagua Mañagu is pleased to have helped elevate the
standard of care and create a higher expectation of
what childbirth can be for moms and their families.
FREE HEARING SCREENING services are available.
To schedule an appointment, call the
Guam Early Intervention System (GEIS) at
Telephone: 300-5776 / 5816
Produced by the Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (Guam EHDI) Project with 100% funding support by the U.S.
Department of Health & Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Grant No. H61MC00094, and facilitated by
the University of Guam Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, & Service (Guam CEDDERS).
28 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
Home visiting services for pregnant
women, moms, and babies.
Services provided to residents of Mangilao, Dededo, and Yigo
Valuing Children. Strengthening Families. Engaging Communities.
Starting early is starting on time.
For more information, contact Project Bisita I Familia
Telephone: 671-735-7104/634-7408 • Fax: 635-7457 • Website: www.projectbisita.org
Project
Loving Our Babies
Produced by Project Bisita with 100% funding support by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration,
Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Grant No. X02MC26314 and facilitated by the University of Guam Center for Excellence in
Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (Guam CEDDERS). The University of Guam is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.
Congratulations to all the babies
born at Sagua Mañagu!
May
Billiph
Andrea Mailo & Jackson Phillip
Riley Nichole
Mona Cepeda & Jay Aguero
Amari Alyse
Abigail Jasell
Cabrini Tajalle
& Ignacio Mantanona
Tyson Avoca
DeeAnna Pablo &
Christian Mendiola
Rossell Espineli &
Florencio Timbang Jr.
Maria Dunn & Nathan Tully
Cay’viyehn Joe
Maddex Shaene
Analisa Evangelista &
Bradlie Hernandez
Monica
Zhiping Gu & Chongyang Wang
Nathan Cole
Joyce Taitano & Marlon Calma
McZaven Lee
Alisha Natalie Hope
Lilliana Camacho & Carl Guerrero
Rowan Lucas
Audrey & Jude Caguioa
Myah Jo
Stephanie Roldan & Ronnie Lawas
Makensha
Stevie Arca & Bryan Eyrich
Ashley Julia Orakibung
Dominique & Rogie Atienza
Kåhna
Krystal Diaz & Michael Sablan
Logan Cole
June
Azriel Grace
Aubrienne San Nicolas &
Dominic Ungacta
Jaeleen Aguon
Joshlyn Castro & Vincent Magbanua
Melissa Conrad & Michael Quinata
Krystal Castro & Kevin Marquez
Carrie & Joshua Mckinney
India & Kentaro Sekiguchi
Lisa Moore & Peter Taisacan
Kerlie Cruz & Shaun Santos
Doris Ellen & Roland Flores Jr.
Eliana Wania & Adam Brown
Ji Eun Lee & Chul Koo Lim
Maryann Benavente & James Davis
Jessica Selburg & Edison Bugarin
Angeli & Edward Co
Rachel & Tyler Mesubed
Alyssa Barlongo & Michael Nonog
Tiara Flores & Darren Masnayon
Jamie Ann Cepeda & Nathan Duenas
Mariah Magallanes &
Jonmark Quidachay
Mahlee McKay & Christopher Hagge
Tanya Penaflor & Andrada Mendiola
Blair Noa
Nikkita Perez & Kristoffer Arcala
Jonalene Salas & Mark Benavente
Liam-Jhae
Gianny Novea
Dong Ju & Maxwell Taylor
Likashrue Abraham &
Rusian Tolenoa
Jerrydine & Ricardo Quintanilla, Jr.
Luisa & Guinn Kargon
Demeter Masaharu & Glib Tmetuchl
Jessica Nangauta & Anthony Santos
Melaina Dela Cruz
& Thomas Sandbergen
Finn Blackstone
Jeremiah Johnn
Grant Seungju
Edward Eizach
Avarie May
Skye Ariah
Denise-Kayvonne Aldan &
Mark-Steven Cruz
Levi Jace
Kailey Hope
Kaede Claire
Ella Renee
Damian Robert
Luke
Silas Oliver
Natilee Latmman
Auriahne Julnise
Bradley Abraham
Jayson Rye
Theo Jaden
Midori & Andy Hill
Nathan George
Austin Jeremiah
Ruhiyyih Yejin
Rico Jesse
Justin James
Ky’Moni Sage
Josephine Kaipat & Jathan Cruz
Kayla Sablan & Jonavin Ichihara
Jessica Skang &
Nathan Leon Guerrero
Consolacion & Gordon Limes
Jenny & Kelvin Guina
Nancy Enriquez & Reden Pangilinan
Phedro Li
Carli Mafnas & Neo Hashimoto
Kiofy & Reckson Ceasar
Renzo Blake
Alaina Terese
Toivianne Emmanuela
Gavin Altor
Aleyshia Joy
Zayden Vince
Aubriani Duke & Traven Blas
Arjane Aban & Mark Torres
Gisselle & Paul Yeban
Chloe Maureen
May & Francis Campos
Aliyah Jane
Arabella Paisley
Jahbari Royce Robert
Kobe Jay Raul
Cheryl Molina & Zachary Cepeda
Karen Santos & Tyler Phillips
Elouise & Derric Superales
Pauline Taladoc
Khari James
Darren James
Nahvia Francine Korason
Nonnie & Michael Shinohara
Ayla Tsariz
Kandeece Jhayne
Jerrick
Jane Peregrino-Ilog & Patrick Ilog
30 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015
Azrah Savage
Greyson Troy
J’niene Jaine
Kayden Jeremiah
Jessrae Asuncion & Kyle Quidachay
barb's corner
15 Years
Strong
Barbara Mafnas, BSN, LCCE, CLC, IBCLC , HB
to work in OB, where we lived. We moved to Guam and I
got a job at a multi-practice clinic, where I met Dr. Bordallo.
Soon I was designing and teaching classes for PMC and
Takecare, and before you know it, I took the Lamaze
certification test. That was in ’99. I am still teaching and
empowering young families today.
They say that Disney World is the happiest place
on earth and although I do love Disney, I beg to differ,
Mr. Walt. I think that Sagua Mañagu is my happy place.
It is a place where babies are birthed and families are
born! I think I have the best job in the house! I have the
opportunity to teach about birth, breastfeeding, becoming
parents, becoming big brothers and sisters and have the
satisfaction of moving people to higher levels of thinking,
so that they can make choices and decisions
about their bodies and their birth process. I
am always happy to hear about a birth that
was exactly what the mother expected and
breastfeeding that is progressing successfully.
Sometimes people ask me how I became a Lamaze
instructor. The story goes a little like this. I was born to
a mother who was only 14 years old when she had me. All my life I heard about how terrible childbirth was, how
painful it was and how poorly they
treated young girls like her in labor. I
felt bad that I caused so much pain
to the woman who gave life to me. I
remember thinking I did not want
children at all. But when I met Joe,
he was quick to tell me he wanted six
Sagua Mañagu is the brainchild of Dr.
children. I told him straight up that he
Annie Bordallo. She wanted the women of
had the wrong woman. I did not want
Guam to have a choice about their birth,
any but would consider two. Well as
and knew that she could provide a beautiful
the story goes, I married Joe. He did
safe environment for this to happen. Dr. Bez,
not pressure me for children. In fact it
Dr. Bordallo, Lina and Flori met weekly for
was his mom who pressured me. After
over four years to design and plan what we
In appreciation for her 15+ years, Barb
5 years of being married to her son,
know as Sagua Mañagu.
received a ring reflecting “the heart of service.”
she thought we needed to provide a
I can still remember the day, like it was
grandchild for her. My sister in-love
yesterday when she said to me, “I’m planning on opening
just had her baby boy and I was taken by him. I got baby
a birth center here on Guam, and when I do, I want you
fever. Within a year, I had a baby of my very own.
to come with me.” I did not hesitate to let her know that I
When we got pregnant, I was afraid. I was thin, fit
would go with her. I was on the payroll a year before the
and looked good in my jeans. I knew that pregnancy
center opened and helped ready the place for its grand
would change a lot of things about me including my shape.
opening.
I gained 50 pounds and have grown fond of it, because
As I look back on my career with Dr. Bordallo and
it is still hanging around. One morning about 3 months
Sagua Mañagu, I can’t help but smile. In fact, my job does
into the pregnancy I woke up and noticed a change in my
not feel like a job. Sometimes I can’t believe I get paid to
belly, I had a baby bump. I began to cry. Joe asked me
do my job! Teaching comes naturally to me and I love it.
what was wrong and I told him nothing. He asked, “Is it
Not once have I dreaded going into work, and I am usually
the baby?” “No,” I said. “What is it?” he asked. I cried
there before my classes start and stay well after the patients
harder, and pointing to my stomach I said, “It has to come
leave.
out!” He laughed. I was sad that he laughed, I felt as if he
was making fun of me. It turned out to be a good thing. I
I get excited at the start of each class as I see new
decided to learn everything I could about childbirth to be a
parents who are bringing into this world not just a baby,
confident birthing woman, because I was not so sure I could but a bundle of hope for a brighter future. I like the quote,
depend on Joe to help me through it. I signed us up for
“Babies are God’s way of saying that the world should
childbirth class. After the first class, I told Joe I wanted to
go on.” As long as babies continue to be born, Sagua
do exactly what that instructor did. He said, “Teach about
Mañagu will go on. I hope I never lose this feeling, it’s like
birth?” I said, “No I want to inspire and empower women
being in love. I love Sagua and all it stands for.
about birth.“ After her class, I was ready to birth without
Happy Anniversary Sagua Mañagu! As the cliché goes,
medication and without fear, and I did both.
it seems like only yesterday we, TEAM SAGUA , opened
Within 3 years I was in nursing school and well on
our doors to our first patients. Moments in time have turned
my way to becoming a nurse. I wanted to work in the OB
into years, in what seems to be overnight. One birth has
department but regulations did not permit a graduate nurse
turned into 6,800 births, and many more to come.
32 • MAÑAGU • 2015 Anniversary Edition - Jul.Aug. 2015