I was in the final stage of labor after several days, sometimes knowing but most of the time not knowing what was happening. My husband did not come anywhere near the delivery room then.

I remember leaving my body and watching everyone in the room then leaving the room and going to the flat where we lived. My husband and a friend were in the living room watching a TV program at the time. I told my husband it was time to come to the hospital. He put his coat on and came. This was at 9:00 p.m. and he would not stand a chance of getting in. My son was not well. They let my husband in so he could see the baby and sign for the needed treatment.

I came back unwillingly; someone said it was not my time. A doctor was shouting at me. I did not see my son until the next day. He is now 40 and my very special gift.