My favorite text to receive: “Hi Whitney - we’re having another baby and we want you to be there with us again!” There is no greater honor than a family inviting you AGAIN to share in their birth experience.
Jenny’s first birth did not go exactly as planned and this time she was hoping to VBAC at Evergreen Medical Center, the very hospital where she catches babies for a living - so cool! Well, she absolutely rocked that VBAC - and she shares her story with us below:
Early in the morning of August 7th, after a full night of sleep (rare occurrence in my last few months) I woke to a feeling I had felt just under 4 yrs ago- my waters releasing. Caught off guard at just over 37 weeks and thoroughly relieved; an ultrasound just the day before suggested this little nugget had a great big belly and was swimming in a big pool (not a great data points when you have gestational diabetes and are part of the “hospital maternity system” and hoping for a vaginal birth). Over the next 5 hrs labor picked up. I was grateful for being able to bring my daughter to school prior to any intense contractions. We headed to my work - no scrubs or badge for this trip. Greeted by my colleagues and accompanied by my very nervous husband and wonderful photographer/doula I didn’t have any (well hardly any) time to worry Stella would cause the same trouble as her sister.
3cm to baby in arms in just over 2 hrs!
I am in awe of those with whom I have cared for throughout this very process over the last 10 yrs. Surreal to feel the emotion I have seen in their eyes and felt under my hands. Comforting to hear my own words through my midwife, who I happened to precept a few years back. Powerful to feel the shear force and strength of my body.
Thankful to my photographer for capturing this day. And for my midwives, for their presence and touch. Anthony’s version of this story will forever bring a smile to my face. Miss Stella June, you are a force.