Interview with Manny Mendez, November 10, 2011

Interview Summary

Interview with Manny Mendez - Richmond, VA

In this interview Manny shares the story of the birth of his first child. Manny begins the story with his own childhood immigration from Cuba to Richmond, Virginia, where he now lives and owns a restaurant. Manny explains how he struggled to be and feel a supportive partner through the birth of his son, and discusses how pregnancy and parenthood has impacted his relationship with his wife. ?I learned that pregnancy changes not just the human body but the mind,? he says. He explains what the ?sacrifice? of parenting means to him, and why he and his wife are not ?50-50? parents. Manny?s son was born at home, in the presence of a doula, a midwife, and the family?s two dogs. Manny lit a fire in the fireplace to announce his son?s arrival.

Interview Keyword

Virginia

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