Monika’s Story

Finally – Dave makes a career change!

Well, it has been a long time coming, but finally on November 14, Dave took a brave step and transitioned into a new career. It was a decision he had to make quickly, considering the circumstances. Our midwives have confirmed it: Dave has earned his honorary degree in Midhusbandry.

On November 14th, at 1:20 in the morning, Maya Belize McLaughlin flew through the barely-filled birthing-pool, like a torpedo fish, into the hands of her father. The labor happened so quickly that even our midwives didn’t make it in time to deliver her! From the first contraction to birth, labor only lasted 45 minutes. When we realized that nobody would be there to assist with the delivery, Dave called 911 for guidance. He quickly realized there would be no time to take instructions, dropped the phone, and improvised.

Shortly after Maya was born, however, 6 men in uniform (2 EMS, 2 police men and 2 firemen) showed up to greet her. Each one wanted to be the hero in his own way, only to find a happy and healthy baby nursing in my arms. One emergency worker really wanted to use his oxygen tank on our breathing, happily-nursing newborn. When we politely asked him to leave the baby alone he packed up his equipment and stormed off, citing that he, after all, “was here to help us.” If only he had arrived 5 minutes sooner he may have had the chance to play the hero, but that title rightly belongs to Dave!

Maya created such a stir that even our neighbour Georgia came over to make sure everybody was okay. Liam, of course, slept through the whole event in the bedroom next door, and was very surprised to find that his baby sister was no longer in mummy’s tummy when he awoke. He asked if this is indeed mummy’s baby, noticing that the big belly is now gone. I assured him that this is mummy’s baby, and Liam’s baby and daddy’s baby – at which time Liam politely pointed out that this is not daddy’s baby because daddy still has his big belly!