Birth Story: Ella Grace

Ella Grace

Ella Grace was born on January 7, 2020 weighing less than 2lbs (1 lb. and 3.5 ounces).  She was only 24 weeks when she decided she was too eager to stay in utero.  Ella’s mother is my cousin, Tamela.  When my cousin sent me an ultrasound of Ella, I could not contain my excitement.  Tamela was 40 years old at the time and had experienced two miscarriages due to incompetent cervix.  I knew that this was probably her last opportunity for a healthy birth and I wanted to support her as much as possible.   Even though I am 7,000 miles away, we decided I would be her doula by phone and FaceTime.  I thought I would be home for the birth, but Ella Grace and Covid-19 had different plans. 

Weekly, Tamela gave me an update of the pregnancy.  Because of her age and medical history, she had weekly doctor appointments.  She had a cervical cerclage placed to decrease the chances of a miscarriage and increase the chances of a successful delivery.  One day after a doctor’s appointment, Tamela told me that she was being sent directly to the hospital.  She was placed on complete bedrest and needed continuous monitoring.  We chatted back and forth for about the next two weeks.  Although Tamela was anxious about the idea of bedrest for such an extended amount of time, she knew it was necessary.  During one call, Tamela told me that she was being allowed to go to the restroom.  That night, she called again to let me know that the baby would be coming early.  Although she was only 24 weeks, Ella Grace was born by Caesarian Section. 

Ella’s birth did not coincide with Tamela’s expected birth plan.  She was planning to deliver Ella vaginally as a full term baby with minimum interventions.  She was open to the idea of an epidural, but wanted to try to labor naturally for as long as her body could.  While talking about birth plans, she never mentioned the desire for a Caesarean.  She strongly expressed the desire to nurse.  Not much went as planned, but Tamela showed complete grace and strength.

For the next 5 months, Ella remained in the hospital.  Each day brought a new challenge or a new joy.  This tiny baby had a ventilator, oxygen, feeding tube, blood transfusions, procedure on her lungs, and a procedure to remove a hernia.  During this time, my role as a doula was to be a listening ear and supporter.  Tamela’s faith and strength never wavered, but I felt that it was my duty to support her emotionally.   

At 6 months of age, Ella is growing and thriving.  Everyone is happy that Ella Grace is home and Tamela received her rainbow baby.