Connecticut National Guard supports new moms with ‘Operation Shower'

Yahoo

a day ago

GROTON, Conn. (WTNH) — The Connecticut National Guard is throwing a baby shower for 20 military moms and moms-to-be separated from loved ones.
'We want this day to be all about them,' Lindsey Fletcher, Operation Shower chief product officer, said. 'We want them to feel like they have their best friend back home throwing them a shower for them.'
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The submarine museum in Groton is transformed into a place with a softer touch to launch Operation Shower. There are gifts, prizes and all things baby for moms who may be feeling alone during an important time in a couple's life.
The tradition started 14 years ago, serving military families from all over the country.
'It just means that I feel not alone,' Alana Thompson, wife of a Coast Guard member, said. 'I don't get a baby shower. I didn't get a baby shower with my first one either, so this is very special.'
The Traveler's PGA Championship is a sponsor of the non-profit organization. Last year's tournament raised just over $3.2 million for the charities they serve.
'People come out support the tournament,' Nathan Grube, Traveler's Championship Tournament director, said. 'You see some of the best players in the world; Scottie Scheffler, Rory Mcllroy, you see compete for a $20 million prize and guess what? Whatever money we make we give back to charities like this.'
The gesture can be life-changing for some moms who are sometimes just looking to meet others sharing the same experience.
'This was our first duty station, his first time leaving so I've never experienced this before,' Erika Hannah, mom-to-be, said. 'I'm not going to lie. The first time is the hardest.'
For more information, visit www.operationshower.org.
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