Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Edline & Shane

Obviously, we are always pulling for every woman that comes through the program.  

Every once in a while there are situations that multiply the intensity of our desires to have a happy outcome.  

Many moms that come have lost multiple children. We've met a lot of older first time moms. We learn about difficulties in their lives and it makes the desire for healing that much greater. We want their babies born healthy and safely and we pray for the Lord to use the babies to bring them joy and to bring healing to their hurts. 

After almost losing Wislene on Monday night there was a certain level of anxiety going into Edline's birth.  We all love Edline and she obviously has faced much adversity in her life.  She is so brilliant and funny and enjoyable to be around, we desperately wanted a perfect outcome for her as she worked to welcome her son, Shane, into the world yesterday. 

Edline's water broke Monday night at 36 weeks but labor did not start. We needed to get labor started by using pitocin, something we very rarely do.  Edline started having contractions around noon on Tuesday. They got painful for her around 6pm.  She pushed for about an hour and delivered a few minutes before 1am.  Even though Shane was early he is 6 pounds 10 ounces and looks great. 

Edline began the day thinking she couldn't get off the bed without help but by 3pm she was marching with high knees around the driveway working to advance the ball (baby) and get things moving quicker. Her family was precious and we laughed and enjoyed each other's company all evening as we took turns encouraging Edline. 

Edline & her momma

Cherline (Maternity Center invaluable staff member) & Edline


I do not define myself by how many roadblocks have appeared in my path.
I define myself by the courage I've found to forge new roads.

I do not define myself by how many disappointments I've faced.
I define myself by the forgiveness & faith I have found to begin again.

I do not define myself by how long a relationship lasted.
I do define myself by how much I have loved & been willing to love again.

I do not define myself by how many times I have been knocked down.
I do define myself by how many times I have struggled to my feet.

I am NOT my pain. I am NOT my past.
I AM that which has emerged from the fire.
(unknown author)


first time momma, Edline, with Shane


Edline started out pretty afraid, but was amazing once she found her strength and courage. She is such a great communicator and always told us when she needed more encouragement or was feeling afraid. I can honestly say it was one of my favorite labor and birth experiences as a midwife apprentice. 

I love Edline. I love the team at Heartline and the joy with which the more experienced midwives and medical wizards teach, mentor, and train. 

Welcome to the world baby Shane! You are loved, your momma is too!