On 8/12/00 our daughter Gabrielle was born after my uterus ruptured. She is our fourth daughter and I had one successful VBAC delivery prior to her birth. My prior Cesarean section was 14 years earlier.

My symptoms were much like the other moms. I was given large amounts of Pitocin and afterward my doctor said that they nearly blew my uterus up.

Miraculously, both Gabbie and I survived. We both spent a week in intensive care – and we were given no hope that Gabbie would be normal. Thank God, Gabbie is now a very bright and active 4-year-old and has not had any delays due to her birth trauma.

I was fortunate that I was being highly monitored and had a nurse with me during my labor. She saved both of our lives – the doctor happened to be going to lunch and ran into the operating room.

We spent the first year of Gabbie's life at neonatologist neurologist offices and having her check for delays and wondering when they would appear.

However, it is unfortunate that the situation ever occurred. I would never recommend a VBAC – even if it is rare, it is just too risky. Since our ordeal, I have been told that Gabbie and I are one of the very few survivors.