Celebrating our miracle at three, by Goodness Chibuna

Three years ago yesterday, my daughter, Shekinah Chidinma Chibunna, came into this world and forever changed my life. Her arrival marked one of the most defining moments I’ve ever experienced—a moment filled with challenges that tested my faith, strength, and endurance but ultimately revealed God’s incredible mercy and power.

December 3, 2021, is etched in my memory as a day of trials and triumphs. That morning, I was preparing for work as the communications lead for a nonprofit organisation. We had an important event scheduled, addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across the six area councils in the FCT. But as labour began unexpectedly, my carefully planned day took a dramatic turn.

We rushed to a government hospital around 7:30 a.m, and what followed was a battle for our lives. Despite the intensity of my labour and my cries for help, the nurse on duty dismissed my pain. “You’re only 6cm,” she said indifferently, her attention fixed on her phone as she scrolled and laughed to several comedy skits. She insisted I needed four more hours to progress and ignored my desperate pleas. The pain and fear were excruciating.

But God stepped in at precisely 8:03 a.m. An auxiliary nurse, just starting her shift, recognised the gravity of the situation. She acted swiftly, confronting the negligent nurse and ensuring I got the urgent care I needed. Her quick intervention, along with the skilled doctors who later stopped me from bleeding to death, turned what could have been a devastating loss into a miracle.

I often revisit that day in my mind—the fear, the helplessness, and the overwhelming pain. It was a close call, but every time I look at Chidinma, all of that fades into gratitude. She has filled our lives with so much joy, laughter, and thanksgiving, replacing every scar with a reason to smile.

Shekinah, your name, which means “the manifest presence of God,” is a perfect reflection of your life. You are living proof of His abiding presence. Chidinma— you are a daily reminder of His unwavering goodness to us.

As you turn three, my prayer is that you grow into the fullness of your name. May you always dwell in God’s presence, and may His goodness shine brightly through you all your days.

Happy birthday, my miracle child. You are deeply cherished, and my heart overflows with gratitude for you.