In an unexpected turn of events that proves babies have their own timelines, new mother Ashleigh experienced a delivery she’ll never forget – right in the carpark of Cabrini Malvern. What began as a routine trip to the hospital ended in a heart-warming scene that showcased the quick thinking and expertise of Cabrini’s medical team.

Ashleigh, a first-time mother, was initially scheduled for an induction on the day of her baby, Amelia’s, birth. However, nature had other plans as she went into labour naturally ahead of her appointment. Following common advice for first-time mothers, Ashleigh decided to wait out the early stages of labour at home.

“I was timing my contractions and trying to stay calm,” Ashleigh recalls. “Being my first baby, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but after several hours, the pain was getting worse, and we decided it was time to head to the hospital.”

The couple set out for Cabrini, hoping to be assessed for pain management, including the possibility of an epidural. However, as they approached the hospital, Ashleigh realised that her baby wasn’t going to wait any longer.

“By the time we pulled up to the emergency entrance, I knew we were cutting it close,” Ashleigh says. “I could feel that the baby was coming, and there was no way I was making it out of the car.”

Despite the unusual circumstances, little Amelia was born in the car healthy and strong, much to the relief of her parents and the attending medical team. “It was intense and not at all what we had planned,” Ashleigh admits, “but the Cabrini team was amazing. They made us feel safe and supported, even in such an unexpected situation.”

A Cabrini spokesperson praises the team’s quick response: “This is why we train for all scenarios. The entire team worked seamlessly together to ensure both mother and baby were safe. It’s a testament to the skill and dedication of our staff.”

“This event showcases why we have protocols in place for emergencies. Every member of the team knew their role and executed it flawlessly,” adds the spokesperson.

After the excitement of the carpark delivery, Ashleigh and baby Amelia were quickly moved into the hospital for post-natal care. Both mother and daughter are doing well, with Ashleigh expressing her gratitude for the Cabrini team’s expertise and compassion.

“It wasn’t the birth we had planned, but it’s certainly a story we’ll be telling Amelia for years to come,” Ashleigh says with a smile. “We’re so thankful for the incredible team at Cabrini. They turned what could have been a scary situation into a positive experience.”

This extraordinary delivery serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of childbirth and the importance of having skilled medical professionals ready to handle any situation. Cabrini Hospital continues to pride itself on providing exceptional care to all patients, whether they make it through the hospital doors or, in Amelia’s case, decide to make their grand entrance in the carpark.