Celebrating our 11-year wedding anniversary was unforgettable! We enjoyed a relaxing day, building a stroller and floating in the pool, reminiscing about our wedding, and snapping some cute photos before dinner. Our daughter Hazel was happily playing with her grandma, and we were excited for a proper date night.
While walking in Old Town Park City, I suddenly felt a strong contraction and had to sit down. Within 25 minutes, the pain escalated, and we rushed to the hospital, grabbing our bags along the way. We never expected the baby would arrive that night.
Celebrating 11 years of love before the big surprise
As we navigated to the hospital, the drive turned into a stressful 55 minutes due to traffic. Realizing we had to act fast, we drove on the shoulder and called 911. The operator warned my husband he might have to deliver the baby in the car.
In excruciating pain, I managed to stand outside the car, desperately trying to find composure. As I screamed, the 911 operator offered encouragement, and I felt hope upon seeing flashing lights approaching.
Firefighters laid a tarp for the delivery, but I chose the ambulance stretcher instead. Despite my pleas for Brett to join me, he had to stay with the car. With sirens blaring, we raced to the hospital, where the paramedics prepared me for delivery.
Arriving at the hospital was overwhelming. Unlike my previous birth, which was calm, I faced intense pain and fear. I could feel the baby’s head and worried she wasn’t ready. However, as paramedics wheeled me through the hall, I spotted Brett rushing to my side.
I urged him to capture the moment as I was rolled into the delivery room. Despite the chaos, I followed a nurse’s instruction to get onto the bed. With fierce determination, I pushed through the contractions and welcomed our tiny daughter, Darla Rose Roth, weighing just 4 lbs. 8 oz.
Although the experience was rapid, it was filled with love. After a brief monitoring period, I felt heartbroken as she was taken away for care. The doctor explained the situation, and I worked to shift my guilt into gratitude for her arrival.
The next fifteen days were challenging as Darla required extensive care in the NICU. Thankfully, I had no complications, and while the experience wasn’t what we had envisioned, we leaned on family support.
We were profoundly grateful for the healthcare professionals who cared for Darla and helped us during our whirlwind experience. When we finally left the hospital, the emotions hit hard, and we felt relief seeing Hazel meet her sister.
Bringing a preemie home is different, requiring frequent doctor visits and special care. However, Darla has thrived, bringing joy to our family. Despite the unexpected journey, I embrace it and cherish our new story to share next anniversary.
