Baby on board: Family unexpectedly welcomes baby on a Marine Atlantic ferry

The birth of a baby is always a special and joyous occasion, but for Lindsey Gale and Mason Devoe, the arrival of their daughter, Miley Genevieve, was nothing short of extraordinary. Born aboard the Marine Atlantic ferry crossing between Port aux Basques, N.L. and North Sydney, N.S., Miley made her grand entrance into the world at just 33 weeks, catching her parents off guard.

Gale recounted feeling something was amiss throughout the day, with what she initially thought were Braxton Hicks contractions. As the night progressed, however, the contractions became more frequent and regular, signaling the imminent arrival of their baby girl. With no nurse on board the ferry and the nearest medical assistance in North Sydney, the situation became tense for the couple.

Fortunately, paramedics were swiftly brought on board upon docking, and with the help of their friends Sherry Scott, Mike Scott, and Nick Billard, Gale and Devoe were able to navigate through the unexpected delivery with courage and resilience.

Devoe praised Gale’s strength and resilience, emphasizing how lucky he felt to have her by his side during such a challenging moment. Both mother and baby are now in good health, with Miley weighing in at four pounds seven ounces. While Miley will need to spend some time at Cape Breton Regional Hospital before heading home to Newfoundland, the family is grateful for the support and care they have received.

In the midst of the excitement, the couple is still working out the logistics of Miley’s birth certificate, given the unique circumstances of her birth. Despite the uncertainties, they hope that Miley will be recognized as a proud Newfoundlander, carrying her birthplace with pride.

The heartwarming story of Miley’s arrival on the Marine Atlantic ferry serves as a reminder of the unexpected twists and turns life may bring, but also of the strength and love that can carry us through even the most challenging moments. As the family looks forward to bringing Miley home and embarking on this new chapter together, their story is a testament to the power of resilience, friendship, and the enduring bonds of family.