Episode 17: A Miracle Born Beside Me

*This story is a serialized essay based on real-life experiences.

Before we had a clear conversation about trying for a second child,
I realized we hadn't let go of the stroller or the baby clothes.
I think that somewhere, I had been picturing another one.
I contacted the same donor.

The tension from that first time was gone, but
there was certainly a small anxiety about whether I could ask again.
The reply was, "Yes, of course."

Something deep inside my chest quietly unraveled.
And this time, the results came back surprisingly quickly.

I was happy.
The day of the birth.

With our first child, I couldn't be there due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

I only heard about the moment of birth afterward.
But this time, I was right there beside her.

Seeing her endure the labor pains.

Her breathing becoming ragged, sweating, yet still looking forward.
I was shown head-on just how incredible it is to bring a life into the world.

By sharing that time together,
the weight of the word "thank you" changed.

This person has risked her life twice for me.
I will cherish her more.

I will support her more.

I will continue to be grateful more.
Our second child was born, and both mother and baby are healthy.
On the day our family became four,

I felt that I hadn't just become a father,

but had once again received the resolve to be a husband.
This story is a series based on real-life experiences.
I would be happy if you followed along to read the rest.

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