Some situations shake us from the inside-out. And just thinking about it resurfaces the traumatic experience all over again. Throughout the past three weeks, I’ve been mentally and physically recovering from Jack’s birth. This type of recovery you’ll read below was not what I anticipated, but nevertheless, I want to share his birth story with you! 🙂
I had occasional dreams of what my first meeting with Jack would be like — No doubt it would be a beautiful and spiritual experience!!! My labor playlist playing in the background, Alex holding my hand, encouraging every breath and push… and suddenly, cries from my son as he makes his way to my arms! I could hardly wait for that first meeting with Jack and to experience God’s presence in an entirely new way!!
The Unexpected C-Section
On December 16th we had some hint that something may be wrong. Jack had multiple drops in his heart rate as he prepared for his big debut. The nurses were able to change my position, give me fluids, and oxygen. Fortunately, his heart rate recovered during those brief scares!
However, in the late morning, Jack’s heart rate rapidly plummeted into the 50s and stayed down for a prolonged period of time. I’ll never forget hearing the dropping heart rate beep on the monitor and seeing the panic on Alex’s face. He told me to quickly rollover before the OB team stormed in. Instead, of a beautiful birth I frequently dreamed about, I found myself surrounded in the room by nurses and doctors. They desperately tried doing whatever they could to raise my son’s heartbeat. I knew this was a matter of life and death for Jack when I saw the fear and tears in Alex’s eyes.
After all measures failed, and without any time to process the situation, I was rushed to the operating room on all fours for an emergency c-section. As I was rolled to the operating table, I internally pleaded for God’s protection over Jack and myself. When they pulled him out, they found that the umbilical cord was pinched in between his hand/arm and his head, causing the dropping heart rate during the contractions. The idea of being cut open was not what I had in mind. But hearing Jack’s beautiful cry made me realize perhaps, my dream delivery did not matter!
The Recovery
Over the recent weeks, I’ve been processing the emotional trauma of Jack’s birth story. Of course, I was upset that I completely missed out on the traditional experience I had in mind. But to relive the moment when everyone rushed into my room after hearing Jack’s distress… It is something terrifying that I still process.
I’m learning to not erase the memories, but instead, heal and accept his birth story and the scar I wear. Despite Jack’s birth being way different than I ever imagined, I thank God every day that I get to cherish, hold, and nurture His perfect and beautiful creation. I thank Him for His protection. And for the docs/nurses who responded so quickly and efficiently! Most importantly, for a healthy baby, my healing, and one incredibly supportive husband. Alex has been so caring throughout my postpartum journey.
I went into labor with an open mind. But to be honest, I’m not a fan of needles, blood… basically, anything medical related (haha!!)… But I completely trusted my team at Eglin AFB Hospital to deliver Jack. My main goal was, “a healthy mom and healthy baby.” My OB managed to work everything in the matter of 8-minutes! I owe so much to my incredible team for making sure my ultimate goal was achieved. 🙂
We are over the moon in love with our sweet boy!!! After going through this experience three weeks ago, we cherish the baby snuggles even more. <3
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