We were so proud to be parents to our miracle baby, Xavier. Mark became his guardian right away after there was a few complications. I noticed immediately how protective he was. I was so over the moon and full of gratitude that we finally had our baby boy.

After a week in hospital and a few days at Birthcare, we finally got to take him home. It was a very special moment bringing him through the front door. We all instantly felt more relaxed. It was so cool seeing all the dog’s reactions when they met him. They flew passed me and went straight to Xavier’s carrycot. Kali was obsessed and wanted to keep licking his face. They fought over who was sleeping under his bassinet. The dogs were his protectors and still are to this day. Our cat Mocha came to meet him too. Xavier was in bed with me, and Mocha came and lay on top of Xavier and licked his little head. They were friends already as Mocha had stayed close to me during my whole pregnancy.

They say it takes a community! In the beginning Mark’s mum Marina was a godsend. The first year she came once or twice a week so that I could nip out and do shopping or whatever I needed to do; this was such a blessing. For the first two weeks we never had to cook a meal as the church community came to our aid with delicious home cooked meals. The beautiful missionaries were very much hands on when they came to visit. 

Even though it was all during COVID, I opened my home for everyone to come and meet Xavier and friends and family poured through the door lavishing us with gifts. We felt so loved.