A striking baby girl named Kamilah made her debut in the world on September 2. She had her debut in a surprise location on the hospital’s roof—indeed. Her birth took place last month, on August 7th. Just as her parents, Angelica Martinez and Luis Mendoza, reached the hospital, the time came.
Luis Mendoza recalled the urgency of the situation, stating, “Two blocks away from the hospital, [Martinez] started having big contractions.” With each passing minute as they neared the hospital, it was obvious Kamilah could not be delayed much longer. In a remarkable twist, Luis was able to literally bring Kamilah into the world himself, just moments after pulling their car over.
Thanks to Mendoza’s quick thinking and calmness under pressure, he was able to catch and save his brand new daughter. He caught her thoughtfully, then raised Kamilah and placed her softly on Angelica’s chest. It was a sweet yet hectic start to their family’s newest journey.
Kamilah is recuperating and has already gone home to her parents’ house. Kamilah’s family is getting used to life with their new addition and calling her “our princess Kamilah.” She joins her two older sisters, 10 and 16, who cannot wait to have their little sister on board.
“We are very, very grateful that everything turned out well,” Angelica Martinez expressed, reflecting on the experience. The couple’s story has changed the lives of more than just their family, helping others recognize the unpredictability of birth.
An obstetric nurse, Carrie Urista, a family friend, was impressed with Mendoza’s quick actions during the delivery. “Dad was the hero of the day,” she said, praising his part in the miraculous occurrence.
