Miracle in the Delta: Newborn Revived in Remote PNG

“I’m not a midwife! I will pray!” Hannah Peart cried, as she ran through the night in search of local health care workers. Hannah, a registered nurse, was serving with YWAM Medical Ships in the Delta Fly District of Western Province, Papua New Guinea.

It was a medical emergency. Seconds earlier, while treating patients, a lady had run into the clinic in search of urgent assistance. There was a mother in labour, but the baby was stuck at the shoulders – head delivered, but very blue.

Help in tow, Hannah returned to find the baby born limp and not breathing. Joanna, one of the health care workers, took immediate charge; administering manual suction whilst instructing Hannah to begin CPR. 

They were fighting difficult odds, with no oxygen, and no appropriately sized mask to administer the baby assistance. After five long minutes of stimulation, CPR, and suction, the baby started breathing – shallow and irregularly. After another five, shallow but on their own. After a further ten, a wash of relief fell over the team as the baby gave its first loud cry. This baby was a living miracle, in front of their eyes, within their arms. 

“I am amazed at the health workers here,” Hannah said, reflecting on the experience, “not only their expertise, but their persistence. Even with such limited resources, they do not give up.”