Two Babies before Breakfast

My morning began in its usual routine. Making sure the kids’ backpacks were ready and by the door. Getting their lunches packed. Getting the kids up, washed up, dressed, and ready for school. It is all part of my job as a mom.

I try not to answer calls in the morning because I want to be there to get the kids up and ready.

But today was different.

At 6:40 a.m., the call came in. A yoledet.

As I said, I don’t usually respond during the morning rush, but this time I assumed it would be a straightforward call. Get there, make sure everyone is safe, hold the mother to be’s hand, and get her safely to the ambulance. I was sure I would be back in time to see my children off.

In true United Hatzalah fashion, despite a slight hesitation, I was on my way.

When I arrived, it was immediately clear this would not be a routine comfort and transfer call. The mother was already in advanced labor, her doula by her side. The two were focused and calm in that way that signals the baby is going to arrive any minute.

I barely had enough time to take out my equipment when the unmistakable sound of new life filled the room. A healthy baby boy. Mazel Tov. Baruch Hashem.

I wrapped the baby in a blanket and began helping the mother and baby get ready for transfer to the hospital, when the doula said, “Wait, I need you in the next room.”

Of course I went, not knowing what awaited me. I was shocked to find a second yoledet, also moments away from delivery. The realization settled in quickly. This was a truly unique call. One address, two babies.

Once again, there was no time to think, only to respond.

I began assisting in the birth of yet another new life, and before we knew it, a beautiful baby girl was born. Healthy and strong. Mazel Tov. Baruch Hashem.

Two births, back-to-back. Two families welcoming new life within moments of each other. It is hard to describe what it feels like to be present for something like that. And to think, I almost missed this for my regular morning routine.

Lesson learned. Even when the timing feels inconvenient, even when we think we might sit one out, our dedication to helping someone in need is our most important job.

Once both babies were born and stable, we began the process of preparing the mothers for transport to the hospital. We helped each of them get ready and ensured they were safely on their way to begin their new chapter.

On my way home, I reflected on everything that had happened since waking up that morning. I was still carrying the euphoric high that you feel when helping bring new life into the world, and this time, I had the privilege of being part of two such moments back-to-back.

Thankfully, I arrived home just in time to see my children off to school. Maybe a little tired; definitely a bit later than usual; but undoubtedly with a heart bursting with joy.