Chapter 1: Here Comes the Sun
The moment was finally here, you entered our world. All at once, the calm after the excitement was replaced with chaos as you were whisked away from your Mama’s arms by an army of NICU nurses. They placed you on a nearby operating crib, running diagnostics in a feverish manner. Your mother and I were quiet as they made the determination that you needed additional care. From what we can recall, your blood/gas level was not at an acceptable point, and though we were assured you were getting the best care possible, nothing was promised. Immediately, one of the medical professionals directed me, “dad”, to come along with them as we took you to the NICU. I promised your mother I would look after you, and I would keep her in the loop as I got more information.
We’re now in another section of the hospital. Adjacent as we didn’t walk far, but for the life of me I’d never be able to draw a map from memory as the abruptness and the anxiety clouded any ability to receive information. We settled in a spot, surrounded by many other newborns, some very visibly in much worse condition. I’m reassured that your condition is improving, your levels are stabilizing, and if all goes well, we’ll be able to leave the NICU shortly. I watch as they raise your beautiful new arms and shoulders off the bed, only to turn to shock as they release them to gauge your reaction. I believe it was the PA that did that, and she tells me it’s simply to determine your reaction. Your anger at your first ever body slam is understandable, and we have a conversation about how strong you are and how proud I am to be your father. Mama is still recovering, and Gigi comes by to see her sweet little granddaughter. Sometime in that moment, Mama’s cousin Gaston calls to just catch up and ask how we’re all doing. In disbelief, I ask him if he knows what just happened an hour ago. He replies no in a curious tone, and I break the news to him that you had just been born. He is overwhelmed with joy, happy to know you were healthy and would one day meet him. After some time, your Mama, exemplifying where you get your strength from, comes over to see her baby girl. Though I’ll never know the physical and emotional toll labor took, from the outside your Mama made it look easy. We’re whole now, and from this moment forward we’ll do everything we can to make sure your life is filled with joy, travel, and the most wonderful memories.
