A tragic incident during a homebirth has led to an Arizona midwife surrendering her license. The midwife, Sarah Kankiewicz, oversaw a birth where both the mother, Jordan Terry, and their newborn baby, Mack, tragically passed away due to complications.
Parker and Jordan Terry chose Kankiewicz, a non-Nurse midwife, for the homebirth despite concerns raised later about her qualifications and the risks involved. An investigation by Arizona’s Department of Health Services revealed that Kankiewicz had violated state regulations by conducting the homebirth, especially since Jordan had previously undergone a C-section and needed a blood transfusion. These factors made the pregnancy high-risk and unsuitable for a homebirth under Arizona health code.
Following the investigation, ADHS moved to revoke Kankiewicz’s license, resulting in a settlement where she agreed to surrender her license for 15 years. Despite this, concerns have arisen about Kankiewicz still being involved in the birthing industry, offering birth pool rentals and breastfeeding support through her company, Wild Birth Services.
Parker Terry expressed dismay upon learning of Kankiewicz’s continued involvement, citing potential dangers to others. He highlighted discrepancies between Kankiewicz’s claims in client agreements and her actual licensing status.
When contacted, Kankiewicz defended her current activities, stating she no longer practices as a midwife but provides supportive services. Parker Terry criticized this assertion, pointing out the risk it poses to the public.
Efforts to clarify if Kankiewicz’s activities comply with the terms of her settlement agreement remain unanswered by ADHS, leaving uncertainties about the safety of her current practices.
The tragedy has left Parker Terry grappling with the loss of his wife and child, emphasizing that no outcome can compensate for their absence.
