Similar to my previous pregnancies, number four would be an induction!! At around 36weeks, the OB ordered an ultrasound to measure the baby. The technician estimated that baby boy probably weighed 7 to 7 1/2 pounds...another good size baby. My due date with baby number four was September 17, 2011. I went for a routine visit on 9/12 with Dr. Kakarla. At the exam, she checked my cervix and determined that I was only about 50% effaced and maybe 1 cm dilated. However, due to the baby's size and my history of delivering Chloe with shoulder distotia, called Paoli Hospital, and scheduled the induction for 9/13. I was shocked! Just the week before, Dr. Kolter, told me I would not be induced until 7 days past my due date due to a change in the hospital policy regarding inductions. That afternoon, I called Andy at the office, my parents, and Fred & Mary Ellen to make arrangements for the kids. Everyone was excited!
The next morning, Fred and Mary Ellen, showed up at 7 am. I was excited and really looking forward to meeting my little boy. It had been a while since I held a new baby in my arms. The kids did not want to go to school...they were super excited! Poor Brady was having his first day at Trinity in the 3's class. I felt bad I wouldn't be able to take him to school. I had instructed Fred and MaryEllen to take pictures of Brady at Trinity on his first day, but unfortunately, they did not take any pictures since Brayden was upset and not happy to be at school.
I could tell Andy was nervous that morning...he was doing odd jobs around the house. I wore one of my favorite maternity outfits, a black maxi dress with a floral print, to the hospital. We took family pictures in the front yard that morning. On the drive to the hospital we discussed baby names one last time...we were leaning towards Kellen.
We arrived at the hospital, checked into our room, and met our labor and delivery nurse. I cannot remember her name, but remember she wore blue custom made to order nike sneakers. Around 9 am, the doctor started me on Pitocin and about an hour later broke my water to try and get the contractions going. While I was having contractions, the labor was really progressing very slowly. By noon things started to pick-up a little, the contractions were getting stronger and lasting longer so I elected to get the epidural. Once I had the epidural they could increase the pitocin, but unfortunately, the epidural really slowed down my contractions. I remember being so hungry, thirsty, and tired. It was so hard to watch Andy leave for some lunch! I had not eaten anything since dinner the night before. I was really disappointed that the labor was progressing so slowly. I had hoped the girls would be able to come up to the hospital and meet their baby brother afterschool that Tuesday. It seemed like a good time to take a nap. When I woke up, the nurses checked me and I was about 3-4 cm. Finally, the pace of the contractions started to pick up and I was making some progress. Unfortunately, Dr. Kakarla's shift was over, and Dr. Shatz would now be the delivering physician.
Around 7:15, I started feeling pressure and when checked the nurse let me know I was complete. Unfortunately, Dr. Schatz was delivering another baby. She wanted me to take a practice push, but only one, since the baby was already crowning. Around 7:45Dr. Schatz arrived in my room and was getting her gown, cap, and gloves on so she could deliver the baby. For this delivery, I decided I wanted the mirror so I could witness the baby coming out. One of the first things we noticed was bright blonde hair mixed with black hair. It took 4 or 5 pushes to deliver baby Kellen! I did end up needing a small episiotomy to make some room for the baby's head. Once the head was out, Dr. Schatz needed to free his shoulders. Kellen, you came into the world strong and quickly gripped Dr. Schatz'z medical gown. It took her a few seconds to realize that you were clinging to her gown. With all the babies she had delivered, she mentioned that never had a baby grabbed onto her gown before. It was a first! Daddy cut your umbilical cord and with a few pats on the back, you immediately began to cry....and you didn't stop crying for a few hours!
You were born on September 13, 2011 at 8:12 pm measuring 22 inches and weighing 8lbs. 9ozs...a big boy!! Kellen Patrick we were so excited to meet you that day! You are a perfect fit to our family. I will love you forever and always KP!!
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