Charlee’s Birth Story.
My dearest Charlee Burr,
You graced our lives with your presence on September 29th, 2023, at exactly 6:44 PM, measuring 19.5 inches long and weighing a perfect 7 pounds.
The day began at Logan Health Birthing Center where, at midnight, we were administered for your induction. The stage had been set and the journey to welcome you into this world had begun. Mom, a trooper through and through, had her patience tested and bravely faced the challenges that came her way. The IV nurse pricked your mom four times before one vein held, which finally allowed this extraordinary journey to begin. Not the start we were hoping for.
Dr. Winterton, our guiding light throughout this entire pregnancy journey, broke your mom's water, signaling the start of your grand arrival. The contractions began, growing stronger and more intense, their rhythm unwavering—every 2-3.5 minutes, lasting nearly a minute each. The pain was etched on your mom's face, a pain that I had never seen her endure before. My heart ached, wishing I could bear that pain for her, to shield her from every moment of discomfort.
At 4.5 centimeters, the pain led your mom to opt for an epidural, seeking some relief. Ironically, the first epidural, although "placed perfectly," failed to take effect, adding a touch of humor given your mom's hatred for needles and the IV predicament she experienced just a few hours before.
The absence of the epidural doctor led us to endure a few more hours of labor naturally, almost reaching 8 centimeters dilation, edging closer to the pushing stage. When the second epidural finally took effect, your mom caught a moment of pain relief before the challenging task of pushing.
Throughout this rollercoaster journey, a remarkable OB nurse named Barry stood by our side, a beacon of calm amidst the whirlwind of emotions. He not only kept us informed but also shared stories, lightening our mood during this challenging time. As the hours passed, we found comfort in hunting adventures, showcasing your mom's badass skills and resilience.
One of the most precious moments occurred before Dr. Winterton's arrival when OB Barry entrusted your mom and me to initiate the final stages of labor. I was holding both your mom’s legs up in the air, while counting down ten seconds for every push. It was an intimate, breathtaking experience, just your mom and me, focused on bringing you into this world. I will never forget that!
An hour of pushing brought us to the climax, the room was alive with anticipation. With each push, your little head emerged, a beautiful promise of your long-awaited arrival. After a few more pushes and 17 hours later, there you were, our precious Charlee Burr. You, Charlee, were the most perfect thing I had ever seen. Besides your mom, of course.
When Dr. Winterton placed you on your mom’s chest, the emotions overwhelmed all of us. Charlee, the tears you shed were just a natural reaction to leaving the warm haven within your mom’s belly. But there your mom and I were, tears flowing down our faces because of the joy, relief, and unconditional love. In that very moment, the discomfort of your mom’s pregnancy, the pain of her daily gestational diabetes tests, the long labor process, the chaotic hospital room—all of it faded away. Nothing else mattered. My whole world was right there in front of me… my two beautiful girls. An indescribable love came over me as I gazed upon the miraculous creation we had brought into this world. You, Charlee.
Amidst all those tears and overwhelming love, I want you to know this, my sweet Charlee… You are and forever will be the best thing that has ever happened to us. We promise to stand by you, love you unconditionally, and support you in every step of this beautiful adventure called life.
Love,
Dad
