CareNet will soon have a mobile ultrasound unit in Twisp. The van is tentatively scheduled on the second and fourth Mondays and Tuesdays of the month in Twisp. A location is yet to be decided.
Shawna Strickland, Executive Director of CareNet for Okanogan Valley, said the van is open to “anyone who is facing a pregnancy decision,” regardless of ability to pay. The mobile ultrasound unit complements CareNet’s stand-alone centers in Brewster and Omak.
Stickland said 40% of CareNet’s clients are between 25 and 35 years of age. Teens represent only 17% of the clients they serve. Strickland said she is working on updating CareNet’s advertising to better reflect their clients.
Bridging the Medical Gap
An ultrasound shows the viability of life as well as the fetus’ gestational age. There is currently a longer than normal wait for ultrasounds in Okanogan County. Strickland says some women’s concerns about their pregnancy are dismissed by their medical provider. CareNet hopes the mobile ultrasound unit will bridge this gap and provide some assurance on these fronts.
“There is a medical deficit for women. Some women are scared and doctors won’t take them seriously,” says Strickland.
“Even when a girl is choosing abortion, it’s better to know how far along they are to limit medical complications,” she added.
Strickland said some women have taken an abortion pill without knowing the gestation of their fetus and had to be taken to the emergency room to complete the abortion in a hospital.
Christian Foundations
Strickland, a former teen mom herself, has held her role since July 2023. Prior to moving to Okanogan County, she worked for CareNet in her home state of Texas. She and her husband are Family Life Pastors at New Life Church in Okanogan.
CareNet will not refer clients for an abortion. It aims to support families through fatherhood and motherhood classes, life skill classes, and helping with baby supplies.
Strickland says she doesn’t ask why a teen got pregnant, but she said early sexual activity is correlated with sexual grooming. CareNet is a mandatory reporter for child abuse.
While CareNet is a Christian-based organization, Strickland said she does not force religion on clients but asks whether they are open to prayer.
“Once we can open the door, we can walk right into the door. We are very gentle,” she said. “We don’t want the client to feel ganged upon. We are intentional that they feel safe, seen and heard.”
