When Magen David Adom’s emergency dispatch center received a call about a woman in labor in a car near Be’er Sheva, an EMT immediately began walking her husband through delivery instructions over the phone while medical teams rushed to the scene.
Coincidentally, Amit Barlev, an MDA paramedic completing her National Service, was on her way to her morning shift when she spotted the vehicle where the woman was in labor.
Barlev approached the couple, took over care, and calmly guided the mother through the delivery, staying by their side until an MDA Mobile Intensive Care Unit arrived.
The mother and newborn were then transported to the hospital for further treatment. The drive was tense, a siren sounded while they were en route, but the team continued their work, keeping both mother and newborn safe throughout.
“I left home after there had already been a siren in the area, and then I suddenly found myself helping a woman give birth in a car. It is an amazing and emotional moment to be there for a family when new life comes into the world,” reflected Barlev.
“During the drive to the hospital, we heard another siren. We took cover and ensured the safety of ourselves, the mother, and the sweet baby. Despite all the tension and the complex reality, it fills my heart to know that we managed to do something good and bring a little light,” Barlev continued. “At MDA we are always there, ready, alert, and doing everything we can to help whenever we are needed.”
The baby’s father was equally moved. “It warms my heart to know that you are everywhere and available at all times,” he said. “We sincerely thank Amit and the MDA team who were there for us during this special moment.”
