Saturday, December 5, 2009

What do I know?

How many times does a human heart beat in a lifetime?

Today I found myself in the position to count them. Almost literally.

One little sweetheart lived his brief life in my care today.

I know Miracles exist. I thought he had slipped away, after twenty incredible minutes. But his little heart beat on feebly and slowly, for another hour or so of bonus life. Cradled by his brave Mum and Dad, skin to skin with his mother in life, with his father later, in death.

It was one of the most beautiful, incredible days of my life as a midwife. From taking the phonecall, to receiving the couple. From listening in and finding two heartbeats, to seeing one falter. From phonecall to the ward they were in my care, as well as the care of superb specialists . Together, the work we did today was a work of art. An oasis of beauty in a forecast that was never going to be good.

Today, for one day only, I was their midwife.

What a privilege.

Once again, I know, I love being a midwife.

10 comments:

Natalie, the Chickenblogger said...

We are fragile and strong... I am glad you were there.

Kelly said...

you're amazing. thank grace for all of you who love to be with woman.

Frogdancer said...

What can I say? I think you've already said it all.

persiflage said...

So sad, but beautiful.

LisaW. said...

a warm smiling hug to you...across the oceans and all....ps....friend me on FB.

Stomper Girl said...

There is so much beauty and pain in your job Laura Jane. xx

Debby said...

How this short life managed to bless those around him in such a short time. I'm glad that you're a midwife too. I'll bet that your families are glad too.

Anonymous said...

oh.
I have no words. :(

Jennifer said...

I wonder if you'll write a book. I think you should --

Lexi:: PottyMouthMama said...

You wrote that so beautifully. I know you would have been amazing.