The Delivery

The day began as an apocalyptic symphony of nature’s fury. Overnight, over two feet of snow blanketed the land, only to be battered and undone by relentless rains. By morning, the world was a slushy mess of flooding and ice, with sideways rain hammering the truck as we braved treacherous roads toward the hospital. Emily, stoic despite her nerves, was a vision of quiet strength.

At the hospital, Leanne, a powerhouse OB nurse and good family friend, welcomed us with warmth, setting Emily up in the VIP room adorned with quotes celebrating strong women a perfect ambiance for the monumental task ahead.  Dr. Amanda arrived to initiate the induction, placing cervidil and a Foley catheter. Emily was officially in labor, her glow undimmed by the mounting storm outside.

The evening brought worsening weather and intensified contractions. Hannah, the “OB night ninja nurse,” and another close friend, took over with unmatched stealth and care, ensuring we rested as much as anticipation and Emily’s increasing pressure-like contractions would allow. By morning, the Foley was still in place until it “magically” dislodged during a bathroom trip. This signified that Emily could progress to membrane rupturing. Her sworn innocence about “testing” the catheter became a humorous highlight of the day. With Dr. Amanda’s expert hands, her membranes were ruptured, releasing an ocean of fluid, and contractions came alive with ferocity.

Lauren, our exceptional doula, transformed the room into a sanctuary: essential oils filled the air, soothing music played softly, and labor maneuvers kept Emily focused.  Pitocin (aptly nicknamed “pi-satan”) ratcheted up the contractions, each one more intense. We ambled up and down the hallways stopping occasionally to work through powerful contractions. Lauren instructed me on hip support techniques.  When Emily reached her breaking point, I sprinted to find Dr. Chang, anesthesiologist extraordinaire.  He worked a miracle, placing the epidural in one swift attempt during a single contraction, instantly bringing Emily relief. I questioned the strength of our marital bond after hearing the outpour of overwhelming compliments Dr. Chang received after removing Emily’s pain. She rested peacefully while massive contractions surged on the monitor her body in full labor mode.

Only two hours later and Emily was fully dilated. The time had come.  We were all ready; Emily’s mom Mary Jo, Dr. Amanda, Lauren, and Hannah. Emily, bolstered by the support of strong, confident women, began to push.  Each effort was awe-inspiring, a testament to her determination and strength. Between contractions, laughter, and mini-dance parties lightened the room’s mood.  I was in charge of tunes as my sole duty (and I crushed it!). After two grueling, heroic hours, Emily summoned the strength of legends to deliver the tiniest, most wondrous baby girl a fragile masterpiece of life itself. Her first soft cries were like music to our ears, filling the room with awe. I leaned in to speak, her delicate eyes fluttered open, locking onto mine with a gaze so pure it seemed to transcend time. She turned her tiny head toward me, and in that instant, the world faded away.  It was as if she knew me already. I was utterly, irrevocably smitten, my heart captured forever by this fated meeting. 

As Emily and I held her, overwhelmed with love, the incredible OB team skillfully finished the postpartum work. This odyssey of trials, triumphs, and heroes was a story we will cherish forever a testament to Emily’s resilience and the unwavering support of those who surrounded her.

Introducing Josephine ‘Joni’ June Rosenfeld born 12/3/24 at 11:29pm weighing 5 lbs 14 oz and 19 inches long… our daughter..