How COVID-19 Changed Everything for New Parents

Welcoming Baby in the Midst of Pandemic

December 29, 2021

By Braedon Haertling, PA-C

Braedon Haertling, PA-C, and his wife, Chelsea, welcomed their first child, Porter, during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shared their experience with AAPA.

What a crazy moment
COVID-19 has changed everything for us in terms of how we thought we’d be bringing our baby boy into the world. We didn’t have the traditional labor and delivery. Grandparents, siblings, and cousins who are typically present for such a milestone had to meet our little one on FaceTime. I was the only visitor Chelsea was allowed. Thankfully, our hospital hadn’t gone so far as to restrict all visitors like some you hear about.

Once we returned home and our family came to meet him, we had to be separated by a glass window. It’s the best we can do for now. My niece wanted so badly to hold Porter. She’s old enough to understand why she can’t right now, but it doesn’t make it any easier. I quickly snapped this photo, and it looks like she’s holding him perfectly in her arms. What a crazy moment captured in time. I hope this all passes soon so everyone can return to a sense of normalcy. For now, continue to do your part and distance yourself from others. The more you do now, the less you’ll have to do in the coming months and the quicker we’ll all be able to hold those new babies.

[PAs on the Front Lines: Brittany Arnett in Pediatrics]

Inspired by your bravery and courage
For those on the front lines dealing with COVID-19 firsthand, thank you. Thank you for your sacrifice to not only your patients but to your families at home. We’re living in an unprecedented time and you’re taking unprecedented measures to protect those you love. My hope is that you’ll soon be reunited with your loved ones and can embrace them without holding back for fear of this virus. Know that we’re all inspired by your bravery and courage.

Braedon Haertling, PA-C, practices orthopaedics in southern Illinois.

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in April 2020.

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