As Dakota Wells and Andrew Page, both third-generation Crete Fire Fighters, made the first and arguably one of the most important decisions, where to go for their obstetric care for their firstborn, they decided their hometown, Crete, was precisely what they were looking for. Their son, Bohdi, born December 2023, was delivered by Dr. Kate Hesser at Crete Area Medical Center (CAMC).
"We chose CAMC because this is where we are from. I was born at the Crete Municipal Hospital, where my mother worked. She also worked at CAMC for a period of time," said Dakota. "Many staff members still know me and my mom from when I was born. I felt comfortable and knew that I and my son would be in the hands of those who care the most."
Dakota's prenatal experience started out a little different than most as she didn't know she was pregnant until she was over five months along due to not having any symptoms. Not only was she shocked, but her primary care physician, Dr. Kate Hesser, was as well. Dr. Kate has over seventeen years of experience in providing obstetric care, and has delivered over 750 babies throughout her career, so she began to do what she does best: put her patients first. "Dr. Kate immediately began to explain what would happen from day one, considering how far along I was already. She made it easy to understand, being this is my first pregnancy, as well as navigating the fact that Bohdi's father, Andrew, is still currently serving in Africa," shared Dakota. "I have been seeing Dr. Kate for longer than I can remember, and I feel that we get along great. She shares knowledge with me, knowing I take her advice seriously, and she's never steered me wrong."
When discussing her delivery and postnatal care, Dakota was most impressed with how at ease she felt throughout the entire experience. "Because of those who were in the room as I delivered, and after, the atmosphere was very comforting. You think about how "giving birth" looks on TV shows or try to imagine through the labor stories of others, but I never thought that I would be so comfortable in such a vulnerable setting. At one point, I think we were all cracking jokes and laughing (probably at me) in the middle of trying to deliver Bohdi," Dakota stated. "The number one thing that stood out was how comfortable I felt during the entire process, considering this is my first pregnancy and child, and the father is still overseas. We all wanted nothing more than for him to be here to greet our son into the world with us all, but even with him not here, there were many others who came along to share their happiness and congratulate us."
"I'd like to recognize Lori Baumann, RN, Acute Care Nurse Manager, and my mom, Nikki Wells, for helping so calmly when on the inside I was very much so losing my mind. Not only during labor but also during Bohdi's and I's aftercare. They both kept me calm and told me what/when to do what needed to be done to get this little guy to the world, and I couldn't appreciate either of them more," shared Dakota.
Pictured: Baby Bohdi under the Christmas Tree
