Birth Story Part III

The anesthesiologist in the OR informed me that Dr. Zwart was finishing up a delivery and that's why we were waiting. He also said that he couldn't stand to watch me in pain anymore and got started on a second fresh "Super Strong" epidural for the operation. It was difficult to stay still through the contractions so that he could insert the epidural, but he was really fast and I began feeling VERY numb VERY fast. Soon after that, Dr. Zwart and Paul both came into the OR. I was so happy to see both of them. Pretty soon, I began feeling like I couldn't breathe. I was told this was because of the epidural going up so high into my chest. It felt like I was only taking short, shallow breaths. Paul reassured me that my oxygen, heart and blood pressure levels were all perfect. This is where it really gets fuzzy for me. I guess the doctor pinched me and I didn't feel it. I don't remember this at all. I do remember feeling tugging and pressure and thinking how it was taking forever. I couldn't feel anything from the neck down, including my arms. It was the weirdest feeling EVER! Paul sat right by my side and talked to me. I do remember saying, "What is taking so long?!"at one point.

Pretty soon, I felt a nice amount of pressure on my chest. I knew it was almost over. I heard the doctor say, "Hey little guy" and seconds later I heard the most wonderful noise in the world. Mason let out a HUGE, deep, cry as soon as he was out. I looked at Paul and immediately started crying. They started stitching me up and I told Paul to go see Mason. Pretty soon, Paul returned and told me he looked perfect at 7lbs 6oz and 20". I was so relieved that everything had worked out. The doctors told Paul to go get the camera, which was in the waiting room with family. At first he didn't want to leave me, but I made him. I am so glad I did. Those first photos are my favorites. I continued to be stitched up as Mason was measured, stamped and cleaned up. Paul returned and brought Mason over to me. It was love at first sight.

Looking back now, all of the tears, pain and fear was so worth it. We were blessed with a perfectly healthy little boy to complete our family. The c-section and recovery were very hard, and I would not recommend it. I couldn't hold Mason for a little while because my arms were so numb and I don't remember a lot of it. That was so hard for me. All in all, I have bounced back nicely and feel great a mere 2 weeks later. I think Paul will agree with me that being parents is hard. HARD. We have definitely been challenged these past 2 weeks but just when you think you are about to lose it, this little precious person looks up at you and smiles. It may be because he has gas, but a smile is a smile. We are told it will get easier and we are holding onto that fact. My hormones have been all over the place and sometimes I just cry. Paul has been such a wonderful companion and rock for me.

The crew that stuck it out all day. I love them. Also, just wanted to show you what 2 days of fluid will do to you.

I look forward to sharing this new experience with you as frequently as I can, internets. I already have so many posts lined up in my head. Now I just need to get them through my fingers and onto a computer screen near you!