In an unexpected turn of events that proves babies have their own timelines, new mother Ashleigh experienced a delivery she’ll never forget – in the carpark of Cabrini Malvern. What began as a routine trip to the hospital ended in a heartwarming scene that showcased the quick thinking of our expert medical team.
Originally scheduled for an induction, Ashleigh went into labour naturally and was managing well at home. When her pain began to escalate, she asked to come in to be evaluated for an epidural. However, as they arrived at the emergency entrance, it became clear that her baby wasn’t prepared to wait. “I knew we were cutting it close,”
Ashleigh recalls. “There was no way I was making it out of the car.”
The responding team, including Assoc. Nurse Unit Manager Amanda Clark, Midwife Rachel Guerra, Hospital Coordinator Jess Purcell and a cast of others quickly sprang into action. However, baby was not waiting around. Ashleigh delivered little Amelia before most of the support arrived.
“Baby was pink and in mum’s arms. We ensured her safety and immediate care was given to mother and baby on a very cold day,” Midwife Rachel explains.
After the excitement, mother and daughter were moved into the hospital for post-natal care. Both are doing well, with Ashleigh expressing gratitude for the team’s expertise and compassion.
Despite the unusual circumstances, Amelia was born healthy and strong. “It wasn’t the birth we planned, but it’s certainly a story we’ll be telling Amelia for years to come,” Ashleigh says, smiling.