2020 baby is Mackenzie Park parents biggest blessing

While Covid-19 had a negative impact on many lives, the wrath of the virus could not stop the happiness the Sookhayee family felt when their bundle of joy was brought into the world.

Pravesh and Nita Sookhayee welcomed their daughter to the world on May 29, 2020.

“Gia Sookhayee was born in Netcare Lakeview Hospital,” Nita said.

“Fortunately, I wasn’t alone, my husband was given the option to take the Covid-19 test and stay for the full duration as long as he didn’t leave the hospital at all.”

The Mackenzie Park residents said they waited a long time before being blessed with a child.

“We waited 16 years for her, she is our miracle baby. Even with all the challenges we faced at the time, we have been blessed,” they said.

“Gia likes music and dancing. She loves car rides and enjoys watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. She knows how to get her way.”

While baby Sookhayee brought tons of happiness, Covid-19 did not make the preparation for her arrival a very easy one.

“In September 2019, we found out we were expecting,” Nita said.

“In March 2020, we were in lockdown level five so the doctor did not allow anyone to accompany me to the appointments, this was disappointing.”

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Being in level five also meant that the majority of the baby items were not available for sale.

“We had to wait for levels to drop as ordering online was not an option, there were too many delays,” Nita explained.

Due to the social gatherings ban, the couple was prevented from having a baby shower where all their loved ones could attend.

The levels also prevented several restaurants from reopening, which in turn, deprived Nita of buying any of her food cravings.

“The food had to be prepared at home,” she explained.

Despite the challenges faced, the couple managed to provide a safe and happy environment for the infant, and are more than happy to share some tips that they have learnt during this pandemic with new and expectant parents:

• At doctor’s appointments, keep your distance and sanitise. Keep your masks on at all times.

• Limit visits to your home to no more than four people. No one can resist carrying a baby so visitors must sanitise and wear their masks.

• All gifts must be sanitised, whether at the baby shower and any gifts given when the child is born.

• Instead of visiting people during this time, video call them.