As a first time father, Jose Garcia was so excited about impending parenthood that he was willing to travel all the way to Naperville for a special 3-D ultrasound to get a better look at his baby.

Garcia's enthusiasm hasn't diminished even after having a second child, as he brings the 3-D technology to Northwest Indiana through his new venture, True View Ultrasound.

"I originally saw the 3-D ultrasound on 'The Today Show' and was just blown away by it," Garcia said. "Having a baby is such a great experience, and I wanted to do something to relive that experience. The 3-D technology had been available only in the wealthiest neighborhoods. I called the 3-D places to ask if they would open a location here and they said we didn't have the demographics. I knew it would take someone like me who understands the diversity of this area."

The 3-D ultrasound provides a very detailed, color picture of the baby.

"You get to see every detail -- if it has your husband's eyes," Garcia said. "It's a really great bonding experience. First time mothers, especially, get very emotional about this."

While the 3-D ultrasound has limited diagnostic capabilities, it instead offers a more detailed look at the baby. After the first trimester, an ultrasound is taken and pictures are placed on a CD. Multi-scan packages are available for a look at the baby at different developmental periods.

Garcia had been taking nursing courses at Purdue University Calumet when he was hired by Lear Seating to be a line quality inspector. Although he has put that training on hold, Garcia has hired an ultrasound technician to run the business. He enjoys being at the business, however, and talks to young mothers about taking care of themselves.

Since opening, business has been a bit flat, according to Garcia. He is now looking to network with hospitals to get the word out, in addition to offering a free "peek" during the month of June.

"The business cost me $20,000 to get established, and so far, it is paying for itself," he said. "I do what I can to work with people so they can afford this.

"I wanted to introduce this technology to Northwest Indiana."

True View Ultrasound

Location: 9515 Indianapolis Boulevard, Sir James Court, Highland

Phone: (219)922-2890

Owner: Jose Garcia

When opened: May 9

Number of employees: One

Web site: www.trueviewultrasound.com