We have to admit, we’ve heard some pretty unusual birth stories over the years, but few beat a recent story about a mother who gave birth earlier than expected on an 11-hour flight to Washington this past weekend.
The new mum, who wasn’t due to give birth until the end of February, welcomed the birth of her baby boy while on board a United Airlines flight from Accra, Ghana, to Washington, DC on Sunday.
Luckily the mum was in good hands, as there happened to be several medical professionals on board at the time, who helped the woman safely deliver her baby in the business class section of the plane.
A doctor from Ghana, who now practises medicine in America, was assisted by a former nurse-turned-flight attendant and another nurse from Ohio.
A spokesperson for United Airlines said, “our crew was amazing, they acted quickly, assisted the medical professionals on board, and ensured everyone stayed safe throughout the flight.
Dr Stephen Ansah-Addo lept into action as soon as he heard the call for help. Speaking to ABC News, he explained that medical supplies were in short supply so instead of using clamps to cut the umbilical cord, they used string.
“I couldn’t believe it was happening. But I was trying to stay calm,” he told the news outlet.
Arriving safely in Washington, DC after an 11-hour flight, the new mum was welcomed by a United Airlines employee who gave her a balloon and a card which read, “On behalf of the United team at Washington Dulles, congratulations on your baby boy!”
The woman was then met by paramedics and taken to a local hospital to get checked out.
Huge congratulations to the new mum and all the medical professionals on board who helped bring this bouncing baby into the world. What a story to tell the grandkids!
