“Mammy, will you marry my daddy.” That was the surprise message written on the baby grow of the new bouncing boy of Rachel Taylor and Scott Gretton from Hartlepool.
Rachel gave birth to a beautiful boy in the delivery unit at the University Hospital of North Tees on Tuesday evening. Following a challenging 25-hour labour.
Her partner Scott – who had been there for the birth but had to leave the unit soon after due to stringent COVID-19 rules – returned to visit on Wednesday morning.
Working in secret with the midwives, he dressed his new as yet un-named 7lb 10 ounce boy in a baby grow as part of his plan to ask for his partner’s hand in marriage.
Scott Gretton, who works for a construction company said: “I have discussed with Rachel about proposing before. I’d bought a ring a couple of weeks ago and got two yeses from her family so I was ready.
“I’m not sure she expected me to ask the question while she was still in the delivery unit though!
“She had quite a challenging and long labour. She did so well and the staff were incredible in helping deliver our little boy.
“Because of the strict infection control restrictions, partners have to leave after the birth which is understandable.
“My plan was – working secretly with the staff in the unit – to return the next morning to surprise her.
“Luckily it all worked out – she saw the message and said yes!
“I’m so grateful to all of the maternity team. The care was second to none and the midwives were so helpful setting up the big surprise.”
The couple from Seaton Carew plan to spend some quality family time together during these unprecedented times.
Rachel, who runs a beauty business, said: “I knew a proposal was on its way at some point in the near future.
“But the way it was done was a big surprise. It was such a nice thing for Scott and the staff to do.
“Thank you to the whole team for everything they’ve done, we appreciate it so much.”
Midwife Kate Flannery said: “The whole team would like to send a double-congratulations to the Scott, Rachel and their beautiful baby boy. It’s wonderful to have such good news at this time!”