A couple's extraordinary experience of welcoming their son in a supermarket car park.
Unexpected delivery: Baby born in Asda car park brings joy to family
In a heartwarming tale that highlights the unpredictability of childbirth, baby William made his entrance into the world in the most unusual of places: the car park of an Asda supermarket in Huntly.
His arrival, which took place on January 6, has since captured the hearts of many, showcasing the resilience and calmness of his parents, Dinara and Mike.
The dramatic birth story
Dinara’s labor began unexpectedly when her waters broke 11 days ahead of her due date.
At the time, Mike was in Fraserburgh for work, but he rushed home upon receiving the news. “Dinara phoned me at about 1am to say her waters had broken,” Mike recalled. Despite the wintry conditions that delayed his journey, he remained calm, believing they had ample time to reach the hospital.
However, as Mike arrived home, Dinara’s contractions intensified. “When I got home, Dinara kept saying ‘he’s coming,’ and I kept saying ‘no he’s not,’” he said, highlighting the tension of the moment. With their daughter Beth being looked after by Mike’s mother, the couple set off for the Aberdeen Maternity Hospital. But as Dinara’s contractions became more frequent, Mike decided to call for emergency assistance.
A birth like no other
As they drove, Dinara’s urgency escalated, prompting Mike to contact the hospital for guidance. The operator advised them to pull over, and instinctively, Mike chose the brightly lit Asda car park as their stopping point. “I picked that spot as it was light,” he explained. With the help of a 999 call handler, Mike was guided through the delivery process while Dinara remained remarkably composed despite the circumstances.
“Dinara was brilliant; she remained calm throughout,” Mike praised. Following the operator’s instructions, he prepared for the birth, using a bright torch he had in his pocket to assist in the delivery. At am, baby William was born, weighing a healthy 9lbs and 2oz. “We used Dinara’s jumper to wrap him up,” Mike shared, reflecting on the improvised yet tender moments of their son’s birth.
Life after the extraordinary arrival
Shortly after William’s birth, an ambulance arrived to take them to the hospital, where he spent a few days in the Intensive Care Neonatal Unit due to fluid in his lungs. Thankfully, he recovered quickly and was soon transferred to a normal ward before heading home. “William was in the intensive care unit for a couple of days, but after a few days, he was transferred to a normal ward before being allowed home,” Mike explained.
Back at home, the family is now adjusting to life with their new addition. Mike and Dinara are grateful for the support they received, especially from the 999 call handler who guided them through the birth. “The 999 call handler needs a shout out,” Mike emphasized. “They don’t often get credit, but they do a great job.” As they settle into their new routine, little William is already surrounded by love from his parents and siblings, making this unexpected delivery a cherished family story.
