The employees who work Jamaica Hospital’s Labor, Delivery and Recovery Unit are used to delivering babies. Arranging weddings though? Now that was something new to them, but it didn’t prevent them from making one couple’s wish come true.
Samala Armogan and her fiancé Steven Bhaagaloo Goseine were expecting their first child on June 18th, but when they learned that Samala would have to be induced on May, 28th they were upset that their plan to be married before they baby was born would not be possible. The couple had received their marriage license and attempted twice before to get married, but according to Samala, “other medical emergencies got in the way of our plans.”
Upon hearing about their desire to be wed, the LDR staff was able to contact a member of the Hospital’s Volunteer Clergy Program, who just happened to be on-campus. Pastor Doulas Palms was happy to preside over the services, stating, “I never expected to be marrying anyone today. I consider it divine intervention that I was here to answer this prayer.”
While the pastor prepared for the service, the nurses scurried to freshen-up the room, take photos of the happy couple, and even provide flowers for the bride. “This is a first for me. I’ve been working as a nurse for a number of years and never experienced anything like this before. I am very excited for them”, said Myrna Escario, RN, who also served as witness to the nuptials. Approximately one dozen employees attended the very emotional service.
The newlyweds were so appreciative for all the efforts made by the staff. “It was very important to us to be married before our baby was born,” explained Steven. “Everyone really went out of their way to accommodate this very unusual request. We are so happy and thankful to them for making this happen.”
After the wedding, mom and dad spent their honeymoon welcoming their new son, Steven Jr. into the world. Both mother and baby are healthy and happy.