I'm very proud of my daughter-in-law because she had a rather rough labor and delivery but she got through it like a pro! Since it was considered a high risk pregnancy, the hospital staff took every precaution to make the labor and delivery as easy as possible for Theresa.

The main concern with a female sickle-cell patient is going into what is called a pain crisis, that's when the sickled cells bunch up and start blocking different arteries and veins throughout the body which can cause a lot of pain or even a stroke. Theresa had a stroke at age six, but recovered fully without any damage.

There were some complications with the labor and trying to control the pain so she wouldn't go into crisis, but she fought through it without a pain crisis. There were other complications after delivery, but she is fine now!

My son was there through the whole process, getting Theresa whatever she needed when she requested it, holding her hand, giving her kisses and coaching her.

When the baby arrived he was there to cut the cord with a big smile. I will be adding pictures to the Wedding Photos page when I get some.

Vanessa Anne Gray

April 7, 2005

10:13PM

5 lbs 9.3 oz