Michael's Birth Story in 100 Words or Less ... April 2003

I am 31 and in labor at 5 a.m.? To hospital to see. Yep. Mom and Joel went to the park when my first cuss word slipped out from pain. Want water broken? Yes, so I can hurry in case Joel needs me. Writhing around, no epidural, some Stadol. Saying, “help me.” HARD contractions – finally I say, “Need. To. Push.” Nurses never believe me. Pushed not long, seemed fast, all is well. Hard labor = 4 hours. Got to see for myself that “it” was another boy! I cut the cord. Born 2 p.m., 7 pounds, 14 ounces.