What began as a typical day for Joe Bogowith, a paramedic at TCMH, and Dillon Webb, an EMT-B at TCMH, in Mountain Grove on Saturday, May 10, quickly transformed into an unforgettable experience. Neither of them had ever delivered a baby before.
Lisa Manfredi, the mother of Marley Kerkhoff, was visiting from California in hopes of being present for the birth of her granddaughter. However, she never expected to witness such a dramatic and beautiful arrival.
Magnolia Elizabeth was delivered in the back of the ambulance at 10:45 a.m., weighing 6 lbs. 7 oz. and measuring 20 inches long.
“Magnolia was born just as we approached Mercy Hospital in Springfield, and your calm, skilled paramedics throughout the entire journey made all the difference,” Lisa said.
Lisa expressed her deepest gratitude for the incredible care and professionalism that Joe and Dillon demonstrated during the delivery of her granddaughter. She noted that what began as a long drive from Mountain Grove to Mercy Hospital turned into an unforgettable and extraordinary experience – one that none of them will ever forget.
“I’ve heard from an EMT friend that delivering a baby is every new paramedic’s biggest fear and greatest accomplishment,” Lisa said. “These men handled it with grace, confidence and compassion, and I am truly in awe of their ability to stay composed under pressure.”
Marley added that she never expected her labor to progress so quickly. She mentioned it was just over an hour from the start, and if they had tried to drive to the hospital themselves, they wouldn’t have made it in time.
“I am so grateful for the paramedics on call that day!” Marley said. “They provided the best care and were so calm, which I really appreciated. As unexpected as it was, it turned out to be such a wonderful experience that I will always remember.”
As a small token of their appreciation, Lisa mailed two stork pins to commemorate the precious delivery, along with some photos she had taken.
“We hope they bring a smile and serve as a reminder of the special role they played in welcoming Magnolia into the world,” Lisa said.
Marley also expressed her gratitude, stating that she was glad the hospital was recognizing the paramedics.
“They are true heroes, and it was definitely the best situation possible, given the circumstances.”