“This whole episode will sure make for a great story to tell as Andy gets older,” acknowledged new mum Samantha Paul after her recent frantic delivery.
The pregnant Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Communication Centre operator was four days overdue when she started going into labour at her Nelson Bay home.
However, she and her partner, FRNSW senior firefighter Elizabeth Paul, were able to rely upon their on-the-job experience to ensure Andy’s safe arrival.
Even if it did occur in the unlikeliest of places… the car park of a Hunter Valley fast food restaurant.
When the call arrived, Elizabeth immediately placed Samantha into their car and began the hour-long journey to Belmont Midwifery Group Practice.
But, the latter’s “waters broke” about 500m from home.
Approximately 10 minutes into the drive, her contractions began to increase in frequency and intensity.
The couple was advised by their midwife to pull over and prepare for an imminent birth.
They stopped in at the car park of the Williamtown McDonald’s and alerted NSW Ambulance, which dispatched a crew to assist.
However, their precious new daughter Andy didn’t want to wait any longer, making a grand entrance to the world before paramedics could arrive on-scene.
She and her parents were later transported to hospital for precautionary checks and, within hours, given a clean bill of health.
Andy weighed in at a healthy 3.8 kilograms and 53cm long.
Samantha and Elizabeth believe their careers as FRNSW firefighters helped get them through what was an exciting but nerve-wracking occasion.
“Leading into the birth, I think we both went into work mode, because we’re used to dealing with dramatic and stressful situations,” Elizabeth said.
“I feel like we just drew on experience from that.
“In many ways it was similar to turning up to a house fire, where you just deal with what’s in front of you and do the best you can.”
Andy is now settling in well at home with her big brother, two-year-old Luka.
“We’re so relieved to have such a gorgeous and healthy baby girl in our arms,” Samantha said.
“Despite, the challenges Andy decided to throw our way early on.”
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