The birth of a baby boy, a potentially life-threatening illness, and an expression of love intersected for a special moment at the Bacchus Marsh hospital.
Alija Marovic was born almost six weeks too soon after his mother Madysun Davis-Kellett developed pre-eclampsia.
One in 10 pregnancies are impacted by the illness which can cause circulation problems, affecting the blood supply to the placenta and limiting the baby’s supply of nutrients and oxygen.
After Alija was delivered weighing just 2.19kgs he was transferred to Bacchus Marsh maternity unit’s special care nursery.
After Madysun and her partner Dani Marovic went out for their first dinner since the birth, they decided to visit Alija at hospital.
“I remember that when we came in to see him the curtains were closed around his bed, which they only usually do when they are doing a procedure,” Madysun said.
“When I pulled back the curtain, the first thing I saw was flowers and petals everywhere. Then, I saw the little sign on Alija’s cot asking me to marry his dad.”
She turned around and Dani was on one knee with a ring box.
Madysun knew instantly that her answer would be “yes”.
Dani had secretly planned the proposal with registered nurse and midwife Amanda Angelevski who was on the evening shift.
Ms Angelevski said she had never been part of a marriage proposal in the special care nursery.
“I feel privileged to have been involved in such joy and love,” she said.
Alija has since returned home where he is being cared for by his family. He continues to gain weight, waiting for his chance to be part of the next special occasion: his parent’s wedding day.
