What a journey.
I had the privilege of getting to know your parents thanks to a friendship with a family close to me. Your pregnancy was full of ups and downs. Your mum worked an incredible amount to be able to make time for you in the end. Emotionally, too, you went through a rollercoaster together. That led your parents to decide to send you on your way out of Mum’s belly on your due date.
First, we tried a few midwife tricks, and in the end there were one or two other little remedies that made it possible for labour to begin. I was with you briefly the first night, as the waves were not yet quite strong enough. Afterwards, your parents tried to get some more sleep.
Later that same day, in the afternoon, the journey continued and we first tried a warm bath. But soon we realised that your opening had shifted backwards, and I suggested an epidural, as your mum was already very exhausted.
That really helped us move forward, and your parents surrendered to the birth process. The little gate opened, but as things progressed it became clear that it was challenging for you as well, and I began to feel pressed for time. You kept turning again and again—sometimes straight, sometimes at an angle—and we tried to bring you into the world with increased pressure.
You came closer, and yet it seemed you could not quite complete your turn through the pelvis. We even tried to deliver you with the vacuum cup, but unfortunately that, too, could not be accomplished so easily—probably because of your position.
So the only option left was a caesarean birth. And it had to happen soon. Thank goodness there was a wonderful team there to help us take this final step—briefly hectic at first, and then calmly.
Your dad was very excited at first, but he, too, settled down again. Your mum was simply relieved when you were there and lying on her chest—wide awake and perfect in every way. They marvelled at you and rejoiced in you. And I, too, was visibly relieved that you were simply doing well.
Welcome, little boy of Earth.