Here comes the hyperemesis gravidarum (excess vomiting). Another fearful times when I worry a lot. I cannot keep the food down. How my baby would receive the nutrients she needed? We would go to ER every now and then, and my husband would give me intravenous medications just so I can eat. I didn’t gain a pound for the 1st trimester. “I’m scared, God. But I put my trust in You.”
At 17 weeks, when the rough vomiting resolved, I took advantage of the appetite. We thought that the next trimester would be a “honeymoon” stage, as they claimed it. We found ourselves in ER again, not just for treatment this time but for admission. I have an inflamed appendix which necessitates to be operated. “I’m scared, God. But I put my trust in You.”
Bene, very small at that time, was seen covering her ears during MRI. It was moving to see your child keeping strong. So did I.
Not a day passed when I didn’t talk to my little girl. For her to keep holding on as we progress on our journey. For her to grow well and that I am here and her Papa, praying for her every night. Benedict would read to her as she’s part of our evening devotional.
Then the unthinkable happened. I contracted COVID at 26 weeks. Far from full term just yet. I remember that morning when Benedict was embracing me while I was bawling in tears. “Kawawa nman ang anak ko.” But I surrender everything at the feet of the Lord. Despite all my fears when there come a point I felt her move less. “I’m scared, God. But I put my trust in You.”
I was discharged a COVID survivor, COVID negative after 10 days of isolation.
Days rolled and we reached our 34th week. During ultrasound, it was found out she has cordcoil. Is there no end to this? My silent cry. But I keep on praying for Bene. For strength. For willpower as we near our due date. There are countless nights I would rub my tummy just to make sure she is still alive. I would praise heaven when she would somersault in he middle of the night. “That’s my girl!”.
Night before my water broke, Benedict told Bene that she can now go out and see the world. I pre-empted him and said “We have a week still. But if you are ready Bene, then we are.”
And at 4:20am on June 13, our Bene came out crying strong, whole and whooping in weight (3.005kg!) at 36 weeks and 3 days.
Our journey was like crossing the Red Sea. But God has been (and always will) gracious to allow us to cross the parted sea with raging waves with our feet dry.
Towards my promise gift.
Our Emmaus Benedique.
“I’m scared, God. But I put my trust in You!”
