Why Rural Healthcare Matters – Ashley’s story

In a small town like Mauston, news can spread quickly. In some cases, this isn’t ideal. But, then there are stories that deserve to be told far and wide—stories like the one that involves Ashley R, a patient of Mile Bluff Medical Center.

Ashley wasn’t expecting anything unusual when she arrived for a routine appointment related to her pregnancy. She felt fine. There were no flashing lights or blaring sirens. It was just another check-up—until it wasn’t. Quietly, under the surface, there was trouble; and baby Desmond needed to be delivered right away—six weeks early.

When Mile Bluff’s team recognized the subtle warning signs, the response was immediate and instinctive. The on-site case manager used her training to open the operating room, which was technically closed at the time. Without hesitation, others dropped what they were doing to assist. Some came from home, others from the hospital, clinic and emergency room. Everyone stepped right into their roles like they’d done them a hundred times before—because they had.

“At Mile Bluff, we prepare for the emergencies we hope never happen. Because we know that in cases like this, we can’t afford to wait for help to arrive from somewhere else” explained Brianna Juszczak, OB Director. “The people who cared for Ashley and Desmond that day had been trained for exactly that kind of situation—when minutes matter and every decision counts.”

Desmond came into the world safely because his mom didn’t have to drive an hour further, and because his mom trusted healthcare professionals who knew what to do and had the training and equipment they needed to do it.

Today, mom and baby are thriving. Ashley knows how close it came to being a very different story—and that’s why she’s chosen to share it. Because she believes people should understand what rural healthcare really means: being there when it matters most.

Rural birthing centers don’t just bring babies into the world. They protect mothers. They build families. They hold entire communities together. If they’re not available, who will be?

Thankfully, Mile Bluff’s team was available, trained, prepared, and paying attention—and because of that, Ashley and Desmond made it through a moment that could have ended in heartbreak. This wasn’t luck. It was the result of years of intentional investment: in people, in equipment, and in training.

“Ashley and Desmond are here today because rural care was here for them. Let’s make sure it stays that way” implored Juszczak. “To our community and to our leaders: rural healthcare needs your voice and your support. What we do isn’t just important—it’s irreplaceable.”