A bright start: Cook program brings nurses to expectant moms and infants, tackles mortality trends

As Joy Helga Nassuuna celebrates Mother’s Day with her fourth grade and newborn daughters, she’s grateful for one intangible gift — confidence.

It stems from public health nurse Rose Veliz’s regular visits through Healthy Beginnings, a new Cook County Department of Public Health initiative.

“It makes me feel confident in what I’m doing and taking care of my baby,” the Palatine mom said Thursday as her infant, Amreen Zara Bogere, gurgled contentedly.

The program, which debuted in January, seeks to foster healthy pregnancies and babies, and to counter maternal and infant deaths across the suburbs.

“Between 2019 and 2023, more than 200 infants in Cook County died suddenly and unexpectedly during sleep, so we know this work is extremely important,” CCDPH Associate Director of Nursing Michele Spikes-Cain explained.

Another urgent concern is the disproportionate maternal mortality rate of Black women “who are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications compared to white women,” Spikes-Cain noted. “And, over 90% of those complications are preventable.”

The free program is open to all pregnant and postpartum woman in suburban Cook County who need support and continues until babies reach age 1.

Participants can range from first-time moms to women who already have children, Spikes-Cain said. “It could be a mother in Barrington or a mother in Harvey.”

Nurses offer prenatal care at home, advice on nutrition and vaccinations, and referrals for food assistance, baby products and other needs.

“We make sure everything is safe for the baby, for when the baby does come — that can be a very overwhelming time,” Veliz said.

Nassuuna had a high-risk pregnancy and a cesarean section.

“It gave me peace during the pregnancy,” she said of the assistance.

Postpartum help includes breast-feeding support; checking on infants’ growth; mental health assessments for moms; and educating parents on safe sleep, which involves a separate crib or bassinet without buntings, blankets or pillows.

Healthy Beginnings was prompted after a state grant for a similar effort ended in 2025. It debuted in January and is funded by Cook County Health.

“We just can’t ignore what’s happening … what we see with Black and brown morbidity and mortality,” Spikes-Cain said. “It’s not new, it’s chronic and we have to continue the work.”

So far, there are more than 40 clients and counting, she said. “We’re excited and I feel this pace will continue to grow.”

At Nassuuna’s home in Palatine, Veliz weighed Amreen, who had gained 10 ounces, and cuddled her.

“I love my job. I’ve been doing this for 28 years,” Veliz said. “It makes me feel good to provide a service that helps moms and babies with their development and safety, and any resources I can provide them.”

Veliz’s key tip for postpartum moms — drink lots of water. “Especially if you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to stay hydrated.”

Nassuuna was hoping for a laid-back Mother’s Day, and Amreen is likely to oblige.

“All she does right now is sleep and smile,” said Nassuuna, beaming herself.

To learn more and enroll, visit CookCountyHealthyBeginnings.org.