The Tribune

By KHRISNA VIRGIL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kvirgil@tribunemedia.net

THE births of the first boy and girl didn’t occur on the morning of the Bahamas’ 40th independence anniversary, but later that afternoon – and both in unexpected circumstances.

Nonetheless, 21-year-old Shanae Fernander and Reteisha Adderley, 22, the mothers of Arajinae Fernander and Ryoko Moree, are happy that both babies are healthy. 

Speaking to The Tribune yesterday just moments before being discharged, Reteisha said giving birth to her first son was extremely challenging, Ryoko’s symbolic birth on July 10 at 3pm makes him special.

“The (birth date) was not the due date that was expected. He was due on the 6th of July, but he just came on the 10th.

“It feels good to have my only child born on Independence Day. I am sure it’ll give him something to talk about when he gets older. I will make sure that he knows about his special birthday.”

And three hours later, Arajinae came into the world, 13 days early. Shanae said she was just happy to finally hold her only daughter.

“I want to give God thanks. It was least expected, but I am happy that she is here and in good health.”

Both mothers received Sandy’s gift certificates valued at $200 from the Princess Margaret Hospital and a gift basket from The Cookie Collection worth $100, including a hand made blanket by Sharon Johnson, the store’s proprietor. 

Officials at Princess Margaret Hospital say they are working on a database that will record the births of all of the children born on the Independence anniversary.