Gabriel Lanai

After posting Gabriel’s pictures, I thought, for those of you who don’t know his story, I would tell it. Gabriel was born April 1st in Boulder Co… on the front porch, but not by choice. Ruthie had been in labor for 30 hours and her contractions had slowed down, she was exhausted. Jared and she had decided to have their baby at home, there were 2 midwives present along with a nurse midwife, friends and family. Since her labor had slowed down the midwives suggested that they go out on the front porch for some fresh air and new scenery. It was a lovely morning but at 4:30 it was still a brisk Colorado morning of 20 degrees. Ruthie was wrapped up in a blanket enjoying the lovely CO sky with all its stars and freshness. Not long on the porch, she had an intense contraction. She told Jared she thought the baby was coming, Jared unconvinced, stood behind her holding her through her contraction, immediately 2 more followed with Ruthie informing Jared this it! Jared moved around to the front of Ruthie, trying to catch Gabriel as he slipped out of Ruthie’s hands moving on past Jared’s outstretched hands, gently landing on the front porch. Don’t worry; Ruthie was not far from the deck. Jared of course put Gabriel on Ruthie and wrapped mom and baby up while everyone in the house ran outside responding to Jared’s hollers.

Gabriel Lanai (for those who don’t know Lanai is Hawaiian for porch) was born with phenomena and stopped breathing about 45 minutes after birth. He spent just over 2 weeks in the hospital, and 3-4 weeks at home on oxygen, until his lungs were strong. Carey and I stayed in CO until all was well. He is now strong and perfect traveling with his parents around the country. I see him on Skype but long to hold him once again, hopefully in August. (Being born with phenomena had nothing to do with being delivered on the porch!)

Again, thank you again to all who prayed for him.