Nationwide — Olivia Newman, an African American girl from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, celebrated her seventh birthday at the McDonald’s parking lot where she was born. Her parents, Bruce and Maria Newman, returned to the location to celebrate the occasion and remember how their daughter arrived unexpectedly while they were on their way to the hospital.
The couple had planned to welcome their daughter at Woman’s Hospital. However, Olivia arrived earlier than expected. Bruce and Maria had left their home in Watson and were heading to the hospital when Maria went into labor. They had only been on the road for about 12 minutes before they had to stop at a nearby McDonald’s.
Bruce ended up delivering his daughter in the backseat of their van. He had eight years of law enforcement experience at the time, but he had never handled anything like this. “I’ve experienced a lot of crazy episodes, but this takes this takes the cake. I was not prepared, but I am now,” he said, according to WAFB. A 911 operator named Brandy stayed on the phone and guided him through the delivery while emergency medical services were on their way.
After Olivia was born, her parents faced another frightening moment. She did not cry immediately, leaving Bruce and Maria worried about her condition. Maria recalled that Bruce had to put his finger in the newborn’s mouth as they waited for a response. “So she didn’t come out crying. He had to stick his finger in her mouth,” she said. Bruce also described the moment as frightening because their daughter was not crying. Olivia eventually began crying, and her father wrapped her in his shirt. Shortly afterward, an emergency responder arrived and tapped him on the shoulder to let him know help had reached them.
The Newmans still revisit the experience by listening to the recording of the 911 call. Seven years after the delivery, they decided to return to the same McDonald’s parking lot for Olivia’s birthday. “So we decided to return to where it all started. And we’re here again to celebrate her birthday,” Bruce said. Olivia had a different answer when asked about her favorite part of turning seven. What she was most excited about, she said, “Just opening my gifts.”