A Tennessee mother chose to deliver her baby with her 7-year-old daughter by her side.
A viral video on TikTok captured the hearts of many as the very young lady handled herself well in the delivery room, awaiting for her younger sibling to be in the world.
Ashley Cunningham, a 36-year-old pharmacist and mother of three, made the decision to involve her daughter Sophia in the delivery room experience, resulting in a viral video that has resonated with viewers worldwide.
Preparing a 7-Year-Old Daughter To Witness Birth
Ashley Cunningham's journey towards including Sophia in the childbirth experience began with open and educational conversations about pregnancy and childbirth.
Sophia, a curious and mature 7-year-old, showed a genuine interest in understanding the miracle of birth, prompting Cunningham to explore ways to make the experience meaningful for her daughter.
"We talked a lot about how babies come into the world, and Sophia was eager to learn," Cunningham shared. "Watching birthing videos together helped her grasp the process and feel connected to what was happening."
Cunningham revealed that she needed to beg the doctors and medical team to allow her daughter and assured them that she was mature enough to handle the delivery.
The doctors came around and allowed the 7-year-old but only if she has another guardian in the room just in case of fainting and to just be responsible for her and escort her out of the room when something goes wrong.
In the viral TikTok video, Sophia was seen standing beside her mother's bed, closely watching her and awaiting the baby. She captured the hearts of many by handling the whole process well and with awe and amazement.
On a memorable day at Parkwest Medical Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, Ashley Cunningham welcomed her third child, a beautiful daughter named Brynlee, into the world.
The emotional highlight of this event was Sophia's presence in the delivery room, capturing her heartfelt reaction as she witnessed her sister's first breaths and precious moments of life.
Cunningham also shared in the comment section that her daughter almost missed it as she went on labor very early in the morning. After the shole process, she revealed that her daughter said that it was easier than she thought it would be.
The viral video, shared on social media platforms, depicts Sophia's awe and joy, embodying the pure essence of sibling love and family unity. The touching scenes struck a chord with audiences, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences and the bonds that bind families together.
Hospital's Embrace of Family Moments
Parkwest Medical Center, where Brynlee's birth took place, expressed admiration for the Cunningham family's decision to include Sophia in this intimate and cherished moment.
The nurses were amazed with the kid's interest, enthusiasm, and curiosity during labor. The 7-year-old got praise for how she handled it better than most adults.
Amanda Brabson Paletz, representing the hospital, commended the family's bond and underscored the hospital's commitment to fostering personalized and memorable childbirth experiences.
"At Parkwest Medical Center, we honor the diverse paths families take in welcoming new life," Paletz remarked. "Ashley Cunningham's choice to involve her daughter in the birth of her sibling reflects the beauty of family connections and the significance of embracing special moments together."
The heartwarming video of Sophia's reaction continues to spread positivity and admiration, serving as a testament to the enduring love and unity found within families during life's most precious moments.
