by Karen Flowers, Country Leader, Egypt
Karen is a certified doula and natural childbirth educator. She continues to grow her
influence and contribution in Cairo where the vast majority of babies are delivered by C-section. Karen aims to give those desiring it the option of natural childbirth. Through her Birth Guardian center, she provides doula certification and childbirth classes. Karen’s unique influence in relationships allows her to develop meaningful relationships and have significant impact on expecting and new parents.
Every birth story is different. As we come to the end of our childbirth classes, I always ask both the mom and dad to take a moment within the first weeks after their child arrives to write their birth story. I carefully explain that the experience will be different for each of them, yet a valid piece of the story. This is the story of Hannah's birth through two different lenses.
Dad’s story goes like this. . .
“When I first met my daughter, Hannah, I thought I’d feel strong and proud. Instead, I felt humbled. I felt a little like a child myself. I didn't want anyone in the room to see, but I couldn't stop myself from weeping. I was relieved that both Hannah and my wife were healthy and that there were no complications with the birth.
“But then, after the relief was a flood of amazement at how there was now a tiny person on my chest. One who had curly hair, like her mom, tiny hands and a voice. She moved and reared her tiny head to howl at the brightness and loudness of the world she suddenly found herself in.
“Underneath that amazement was terror. I loved my parents, but I knew what their limitations were. And now, here I am with my own child. I was determined that I would not be distant with Hannah as my dad was with me and my brother, and I hated the idea that she might grow up to fear me. I didn't want to ever lose my temper with this beautiful tiny creature. I didn't want to miss a single moment of her life. This incredible tiny being who would, at least for a time, rely on me for everything, which was the most terrifying thought of all.
“And, finally, there was love. There was love so big and so overwhelming I thought I might not be able to breathe.
“And all of these feelings, the relief and amazement and terror and love, filled every cell of my being and in a single moment – that moment when my daughter was born, I looked down at her and touched her, in that moment I felt that I was born, too. I am no longer just myself – a man, a husband, a son, a brother. Now I am a father, a parent. And I couldn't believe the transformation.
“Thank you, Karen, so much for teaching me how to be with my wife during the birth, and how to be a participant in the birth of my daughter! We love you so much. And, yes, she has me wrapped around her tiny little finger, just like you said.”
And Mom tells her story like this. . .
“It was a beautiful sunny morning in May of 2024, when we welcomed our new little one into the world. The anticipation and excitement had been building for months, and finally, the moment arrived when our precious baby made her grand entrance, bringing with her a wave of pure happiness and love, along with so many other various indescribable emotions.
“I watched as Ahmed held Hannah in his arms for the first time, a sense of wonder and awe washed over me. He marveled at the tiny fingers and toes, the soft cries, and the tiny features that resembled both of us.
“The room was filled with joy and love as family and friends gathered to celebrate the newest addition to our family. Everyone was eager to shower Hannah with hugs and kisses, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that filled my heart with gratitude.
“In the days after her birth, Ahmed and I shared the ups and downs of parenthood together, cherishing each moment we spent with her. From sleepless nights to heartwarming smiles, every experience deepened the bond between us, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
“As she grew and thrived, surrounded by love and support, I found myself in awe of the miracle of life and the joy that parenthood brought into our life. My world is now complete, with Hannah filling our days with laughter, love, and endless possibilities.
“This is not the ‘birth story’ Karen asked for, but it is a story that could not have been possible without the amazing classes she taught, and her presence on one of the most special days of our lives.”