One born every minute...

Published on Wednesday, February 08, 2012

I am fascinated with the programme currently running called “One Born every Minute” on channel 4. It shows the highs and lows of childbirth with just about every other emotion in-between. The staff demonstrate the very best of what the NHS has to offer and having worked within the NHS for 22 years, I can truly commend them for all the commitment and hard work they put in to making sure that all the babies and mums are as cared for as humanly possible.

Having had 3 children of my own with labours consisting of very long, horrendously painful and a Caesarian (in that order), I find myself empathising with many of the women on the programme. I find myself pushing or not pushing as instructed by the midwives and at times the very real connection with the labours makes me want to be handed the gas and air to help me get through to the end of the programme viewing on a spectator high!

The miracle of birth is a constant source of wonder and I am so grateful I can work in a business where I get to see newborn babies and toddlers on a daily basis to capture their tiny, gorgeous feet in clay, silver or ceramics. Each baby is precious and unique - the items we produce, proudly showing their tiny toes, will be treasured forever by parents and grandparents alike. However, it is also vitally important for us as staff here at ZEBRA to support, listen to and encourage the new mums. Many mums come and want to just chat and share experiences. Each one has a story to tell. Each new day with a growing baby is an adventure to tell. We love having our NCT groups who come and have a great coffee, a brownie and capture those precious digits on a whole range of items and just take time to relax and share their days.

The birth of a baby is a moment in time but the on-going experience and the library of daily captured stories lasts a lifetime.