This was our first child, and going into labor, it was my wife’s goal to have a natural birth. When we arrived at the hospital, she became overwhelmed and initially opted for an epidural. What happened next felt truly divine. Our doula arrived at the same time as a nursing shift change, and Emma stepped in during that transition. After listening to me, my wife, and our doula talk about the original plan for a natural birth, Emma looked my wife directly in the eyes and said, “You’ve got this. I know you can do it.”

My wife labored for 23 hours and pushed for 5 hours. Near the very end, we reached a critical decision point. Our baby was ready to come out, but due to the size of her head, that final step was difficult. Our doctor, whom we adore, came in and had a hard but necessary conversation. She explained that we had two options: proceed with a C-section or attempt a vacuum delivery up to three times without medication, knowing it would be very painful. If that didn’t work, a C-section would be required. I could see my wife becoming overwhelmed and tearful.

In that moment, Emma stepped in, got right in front of her, held her, and said, “You are going to meet this baby today. You are strong. You have worked so hard for this. Give me everything you have right now, and you’re going to be with your baby.” The final contraction came. She pushed. The vacuum worked. And suddenly, we were together with our baby girl. There were tears, smiles, and overwhelming joy. My wife looked at Emma and said, “I love you. I couldn’t have done this without you.”

The way Emma supported my wife throughout labor, moving her from the shower to the tub, to the bed, to the peanut ball, was incredible to witness. I want her to know how deeply grateful we are. She was the hands and feet of Christ during that delivery, and I truly believe this birth would not have gone according to plan without her presence. She is a rockstar, and every patient she cares for is incredibly fortunate. Thank you.