"The minutes before we hear a cry are torture, but the relief is ecstasy"

Irish Examiner editor Tom Fitzpatrick had to wait outside the maternity hospital until he was called to the delivery room shortly before the birth of his second child. Once again, he was overcome by emotion

PURE PERFECTION: Tom Fitzpatrick with his daughter who was born last month. 

In the days leading up to our little girl’s arrival last month, we’re told maternity restrictions are being lifted. The relief is unimaginable. The prospect of not being with my wife and our newborn child hung over our house like a cloud for nine uncertain, fearful months.

During the periods of lockdown, our two-year-old daughter has played alone, confused why she can’t hug family, including her grandparents. We haven’t been able to call on friends and family for support.