Happy New Year! She’s Here!

Welcome Baby!

Colette Jolie Gloria Gadigian, our little lioness, arrived at 2:12am on December 31, 2024, just in time to ring in the new year with us. We call her Coco for short—a name full of sweetness and spirit, reflecting the love and meaning poured into every syllable. Her Hebrew name, Leviah (לביאה), means "lioness," a tribute to her late great-grandfather Leo, and her strength, courage, and fierce determination—qualities we already sense in her tiny yet mighty presence. Each part of her name holds a story: Colette, meaning victory of the people, Jolie, delicate and beautiful, and Gloria, honoring the legacy and grace of her great-grandmother Gigi. Coco, you are already so deeply cherished, and our hearts are fuller because of you. 🦁❤️

Coco’s journey into the world was nothing short of transformative. Just hours after sharing my last blog post, I found myself in labor, arriving at the hospital around midnight, already 6 cm dilated. Originally scheduled for a C-section at 10 AM, the rapid progression of labor forced a pivotal decision: attempt a trial of labor, despite the risks from my previous C-section and extra fluid, or proceed with the surgical team already on call.

Contractions came fast and fierce, but through the haze of pain, clarity emerged—I wanted to avoid an emergency scenario. I chose the C-section, trusting the expertise around me. The surgery confirmed it was the right choice: my uterine wall was thin, with significant scar tissue. A vaginal birth would likely have ended in surgery regardless.

The most challenging moment was staying still for the spinal anesthesia as contractions came just a minute apart. But once the anesthesia took hold, calm began to wash over me. The surgery went smoothly, and though many of my birth preferences couldn’t be realized, I felt safe this time—safe, supported, and cared for. My husband was by my side, and the moment Colette arrived, she was placed with us for those precious first moments before moving to recovery.

Music has been a quiet but powerful presence throughout this journey. While we couldn’t play WOMB music in the operating room due to sterile requirements, its soothing melodies accompanied me in the car, during labor, and in recovery. Those sounds have not only calmed me but seem to work their magic on Coco, fostering serenity and connection in our new family.

This birth experience has been healing in ways I didn’t anticipate. Despite another C-section, I feel emotionally and physically more whole this time. My first daughter, Sophia, made me the mother I am today. She introduced me to both motherhood's challenges and joys, while Colette, my sweet Coco, is helping me rediscover myself through renewal and healing. I am so fortunate to have both little girls in my life. They are my heart beating outside of my body.

The WOMB Music Project, born from the trauma of my first birth, has been a beacon in my healing process. It’s shown me—and others—the profound power of music in nurturing mothers and babies. But there is still so much work to be done. The culture in hospitals needs a shift. Music, art, and holistic care should be more deeply integrated into the birthing experience, fostering a sense of calm and empowerment in what is often a clinical, high-stress environment.

Today, as I hold Coco in my arms, I feel gratitude beyond words. This journey has reminded me of the resilience of motherhood, the strength we carry, and the healing power of community, music, and love. Colette, you are a gift, and through you, we are starting a beautiful new chapter. I can’t wait to bring you home.