19/05/2025
In the Midst of Pain, I Saw the Power of Love
On May 17, 2025 I saw a post that really struck me — a story about a woman who gave birth after 16 hours of labor, enduring pain every 5 minutes. The way her husband reacted broke my heart. After everything she went through — being scolded by doctors, forced to take a cold bath after labor, and crying in exhaustion — the only thing he said was “okay lang ‘yan,” no hug, no comfort, no warmth. The next day, he came with Jollibee... just for himself, saying he was tired and hungry from waiting.
That story hit home, because I’ve experienced something similar — not as the one giving birth, but as the child who watched it all unfold.
After my work at City Accounting, I waited for a ride to go home. I arrived at around 6:30 PM and saw my mother lying in bed, in pain. She’s pregnant. By 7:00 PM, her pain worsened. My father asked if she could still handle it while he got the car ready for the hospital, but she said she would let us know if it became unbearable. Quietly, we were already preparing everything she needed.
At 11:00 PM, she finally asked to be brought to the hospital. Upon arrival, she was checked three times — still just 2cm dilated. What crushed me was seeing her eyes, glistening with tears from the pain she couldn’t control. The doctors then found out she had UTI, which worsened everything, and referred us to another hospital for further tests. It was already 1:00 AM.
We went from hospital to hospital, and eventually returned to the first one to prepare for her delivery.
I felt so helpless seeing her in that condition. All I could think of doing was making sure they had something to eat. Most stores were closed, but I walked around and found food. I cried while walking. I didn’t care who saw me. I was scared — I didn’t know what else I could do for her.
By 6:00 AM, my mom still hadn’t slept, the pain continued. I brought more food, clothes, and supplies. Thankfully, Miss Mabs from work understood and told me not to report that day.
What comforted me most was how my family showed up. When I went home to pack, they all asked how Mom was, what they could do to help, if she gave birth already. I felt seen. I felt supported.
I returned to the hospital with my grandmother and my cousin’s wife. We weren’t allowed inside the delivery room, so we relied on updates via phone. My grandmother told me how tired my mom was, and that she was struggling to push. I was terrified.
By 8:00 AM, she was at 6cm. By 2:00 PM, 8cm — still not enough. I went to the church and cried. I prayed for strength for her, for her safety, and my baby sister’s. I just wanted them to be okay.
When I got back to the hospital, the baby was almost here.
Finally, she gave birth — after more than 19 hours of pain, struggle, and strength.
I met my baby sister — 21 years younger than me. She was beautiful. More beautiful than we imagined.
That day reminded me of something important:
A woman sacrifices her body, comfort, and strength to bring life into this world. She deserves to be treated with compassion, respect, and love — not indifference.
And family is everything. When things get rough, you’ll remember the people who were there — not with grand gestures, but with sincere concern, effort, and care.
To my mom, I admire your strength. To my dad, thank you for staying by her side. To my family, thank you for being our support.
And to God, thank You for hearing my prayers.
