Kate
and Pete's Story
The Birth of Madeleine Emily Swincer
I received a phone call from Pete just before 7am on
Wednesday morning to let me know that Kate had been in labour since
1:30am. She was doing well, but could not talk on the phone so I had
a thought this must be it!
I arrived at Kate and Pete's home around 8am to find Kate labouring
on the couch. She was coping very well, but was tired and listened
to her body telling her she needed rest. Her spirits seemed positive
as she breathed and moved through the expansions (not
contractions!).
Around 9am I suggested Kate might like a bath. This idea must have
sounded quite good to Kate, so we lit some candles and filled up the
bath for Kate to relax in. She told us that it was very relaxing and
stayed there for around 30 minutes.
Kate then decided that she needed to be able to move around a bit
more, so climbed out of the bath and had some expansions while
walking the hall and pacing the kitchen. After some of this, Kate
decided once more to rest. It was at this point she was even able to
relax enough between the sensations to have small naps.
As labour heated up, Kate decided she'd like to try the shower again
(she'd had one earlier before I arrived). Once in the shower, there
was definitely no slowing up! Kate breathed and moved so wonderfully
during the sensations, while reaching for Pete's hand to reassure
and comfort her.
By now, contractions were consistently 2 minutes apart. I was
quietly thinking that if we were to make it to the hospital, we
might leave soon! I asked Kate how she was doing, to which she
replied she didn't think she was doing overly well - both Pete and I
knew she was doing a wonderful job, and told her so. I asked if she
thought we should go soon, and she agreed.
We arrived at the birth centre around 11:30am and Kate climbed into
a waiting warm bath. Pete stayed with Kate, and they worked
wonderfully as a team together. It wasn't long until Kate found
herself pushing, and soon after they were meeting their baby for the
first time!
A beautiful little girl, Madeleine Emily, was welcomed into the world at
1:44pm on Wednesday 16th July 2008.
Congratulations, Kate and Pete, on your gorgeous little "cherub".
Kate, your persistence, belief in your own body and hard work
coupled with Pete's encouragement and support made a fantastic
combination! Your baby's birth was a truly positive experience, a
great beginning to Madeleine's life and an awesome first "family
experience"! I cannot say how happy I am for you both. Enjoy your
lovely little princess and, like labour and birth, always believe
that you are the experts when it comes to your family! Well done!
