A couple of months ago I was blown away by a text from one of my favorite clients, Anya and Rob. They were expecting their first baby and wanted to have the birth documented and asked if I would do it for them. I was floored. I was so touched, I think I may have even teared up a bit..I was so honored of them to think of me. I just was so excited to be able to be a part of this.
As the due date drew near, I started to get super excited, like to the point of where I wasn't able to sleep cause I was afraid I'd miss the 'call'. Not only did I need to get to the hospital in time, but I had to make an hour + drive to Athens where they were to deliver at O'belness Hospital. I think I was more nervous for this birth than the birth of our own son....it was keeping me awake at night...the excitement, the worry, knowing this was a one time deal to get the 'shot'.
So the day finally arrived.....that is only after at least three false alarms, and a lot of contractions leading up to the big day. Anya actually went in to deliver on her due date in the early stages of labor, only to be turned away cause there wasn't enough beds....the poor girl, I felt for her.....so the next morning she went into the hospital so that they could start her on Pitocin and get things moving...
I arrived to the hospital around 2pm Saturday afternoon and Anya was resting. Her mom and dad were also present.
The hour's past and we watched as the clock slowly moved from one number, to what seemed to be halting on another. Rob kept us all laughing and did a great job at keeping Anya's mind off the discomfort.
Rob did such an awesome job supporting Anya and giving her encouragement. You could see her gain strength from just looking in his eyes.....it was very sweet.
Look at that look of pure adoration for one another...
Anya seemed to perk up a little and she sat up for awhile. In their spare time, they spent their time updating their FB status's and calling friends and family to update them. Things were moving very slowly and there was concern she might deliver via c-sec.
Rob and Anya are both in the medical field, so he took good care of her needs. Mom and dad watched and helped them pass the time.
I have to say, this day went from what looked like a long night ahead with surgery to come to a 180 turn around. She started to really feel discomfort, unlike before, and I was trying to give them a little space by stepping in the hall when suddenly Rob peeked out the door and said 'He's coming!' That quick! I was overjoyed!
As a woman, I felt for Anya and what she must be going through. Having had a child by c-sec, I couldn't fully comprehend what she was going through, but it didn't seem pleasant, but she did such a wonderful job. She kept right on doing what she had to do and got through the pain with her mother and Rob by her side. And then they were three.......welcome Ben!
All I can say is it was just such a beautiful experience. To watch Anya's face go from extreme discomfort to pure joy......priceless.
Grandpa got to see his grandson for the first time at the door as they got Anya taken care of.
Pride in the best form.
A happy lil family. Thank you so much for allowing me to take part in this with you. It will forever be a special memory for me to cherish for year's to come. You are blessed!
Labels: Birth