Lorah — so beautifully written.

I too had a perfect pregnancy, which was so amazing after trying actively for a baby for 4 years (after losing my son Gabriel at 7 months pregnant 18 years ago) and falling pregnant on our first round of IVF.

There was very much mixed emotions at our scan 5 weeks after implantation — when it was revealed that just the one of our embryos had survived.

All along I said that Cooper would be early. I said 2 weeks so I wasn’t really shocked when I felt that “pop” at 14 days to go!

After a long 26 hour labour we too were told that a c section was required due to the fact that 24 hours after waters have burst you and your baby are then on a high risk of infection.

Because we had conceived via IVF I was absolutely desperate to give birth naturally, but in the end, all that really mattered was getting my miracle baby out safe and sound and finally getting to see his little face.

18 months down the line, I still get a little discomfort from my scar but I just see it as a war wound — something absolutely necessary to ensure my beautiful boy (and I) get to live this life from there on together and every pain I went through, all the not being able to move, all the discomfort was such a small price to pay for my amazing, beautiful boy.

I’ve always laughed about it to my mum. Clearly I am the Virgin Mary re-incarnated. Immaculate conception and not actually having given birth through the “traditional” birthing canal route means I’m really a virgin … right???!!! : )

Looking forward to your next installment!

Cx