merrill@rex.DEC (11/27/84)
Even after four previous children I am still excited to announce the birth of our daughter Jayne Helen Merrill on Nov 23rd 1:17pm. She weighed in at 8lbs 8oz. My wife was in labor for twelve hours and did wonderfully throughout. Both are home now and doing well. The nurses and doctors at Emerson Hospital are wonderful, helping us all the way but letting us select our own pace. Over the years I have noticed a steady change in attitude towards fathers. When our first (twins) were born 14 yrs ago the father was barely permitted to be present, IF there was room. 10 yrs ago the father was encouraged to participate. 5 yrs ago the father was Expected to be an active participant. This time I felt I helped not only my wife but also helped to make decisions with the nurses and doctors, run the monitors, assist with the actual delivery, cut the umbilical cord, hold the baby immediately, et cetera. May every father have as full and good an experience. Gratefully, Rick
david1@aluxe.UUCP (nelson) (12/06/84)
Our lives are even fuller since the birth of our son. Jeffrey Paul Nelson Born November 26, 1984, 2:57 PM 6 pounds, 14 ounces Reading Hospital, West Reading, Pa.