Besides my own son’s birth, I’ve never experienced witnessing a birth and I was truly honored when my brother-in-law and his girlfriend agreed to let me photograph my niece’s birth. The whole process was an emotional rollercoaster and the whole room was buzzing with excitement. Jenny was being induced and I went with them as they got settled into their room and began the induction process. I could see reality setting in when George looked around the room with wide eyes and their nerves really began to surface. I assured them everything will be fine and it will all be worth it in the end when they’re holding Zoey in their arms. Having been induced myself, I knew it was going to be a long night for them so once they were all settled, I said my goodbyes and left them to rest.
I returned the next morning shortly after Jenny had received her epidural. She experienced contractions all through the night and was slowly progressing. Once she had her epidural, the doctor came in to break her water and start Pitocin to strengthen her contractions. After an hour she had only progressed 1cm so we settled in for what was surely going to be a long day. George, my mother-in-law, and I decided to quickly run down to the café to get some coffee and sure enough in the 10 min we were gone, Jenny began experiencing really strong contractions that were taking a toll on her. The nurse checked her and she had progressed 2cm. 2cm in 20 min! She was beginning transition and I knew it wouldn’t be long before it would be time for her to push.
George wiped away Jenny’s tears while holding her hand and assuring her everything will be ok. He never left her side again and I was so proud of him for being such a strong support for Jenny. About 15 minutes later, Jenny began to feel a lot of pressure and we immediately paged the nurse to check her again. She was now 9cm. They turned the Pitocin off as her doctor was about to go into a C-section and they didn’t want her to deliver in the middle of it. Not even 5 minutes later she said she couldn’t fight the urge to push so we paged the nurse again. Sure enough she was 10cm and ready to go! The nurse called the doctor immediately and was able to catch him just before they began the anesthesia for the C-section.
You could feel the excitement and nervousness in the room as I tried to find the best place I could to capture the moment amongst all the people. I ended up standing on a chair to be able to see their faces over everyone’s shoulder. Once Jenny began to push, I could feel myself holding my breath. I could see the pain on her face and I know the exhaustion that comes with pushing. George continued to wipe her tears and whisper encouragement in her ear and after a handful of pushes, Zoey was out. Tears streamed down my face as I attempted to capture their first glimpse of her. I was in awe of how strong Jenny was throughout the whole process and what amazing things a woman’s body can do. I felt like I witnessed one of God’s miracles and I will never forget that moment.
Zoey made her grand entrance on September 19, 2014 at 2:50pm weighing 8 lbs 13 ounces and 19 inches long. We are all so in love with her and can’t wait to see the new dynamic she brings to our family. George and Jenny, you are blessed to have such a beautiful and healthy daughter. I pray God continues to bless your family and I love you all with all my heart.
by Julie Jarrell
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