Everything I wished for not to happen in childbirth, did. I lost my twin son and had to get a C-section to safely remove his brother. I was completely heartbroken knowing my child had passed and extremely scared of having a C-section. The only way I got through it was Neil.
I describe him to everyone as an angel. When they were preparing me, they had my husband step outside, and Neil was there. He reassured me, comforted me, and rubbed my cheek to calm me down. He had the most calming presence and made me feel safe.
He took photos for us, made sure someone took pictures of our precious son's birth and mostly wiped away my tears. Tears of joy. Tears of sorrow. He was there when my husband couldn't be.
The most beautiful memories I have of the OR are with him in it. He made sure my voice was heard and I was taken care of. He was the one who held my sweet boy to my face, so I could see him for the first time. He held my other beautiful son on my other cheek, while he talked and kissed his mama for the first time. Neil stroked my hair with quiet understanding when I had to let him go to the ICN. And most importantly, he took my most memorable photo with my boys. One I will always cherish; one son by each cheek.
I could go on and on about his compassion and comforting presence. Thank you, Neil, for being there for me on the worst day of my life. You are my angel.