A Mitchells Plain mom who gave birth to rare quadruplets last week is eagerly waiting for her four babies to be sent home.
Berenice Jacobs, 36, who made headlines when she appealed for help with her extraordinary pregnancy, is recovering well at home after being discharged from hospital over the weekend, while her tiny premature babies are being kept in incubators until they are stronger.
The Tafelsig woman, who is now a mother of seven, says she had never seen so many doctors in her life while undergoing a C-section at Groote Schuur Hospital.
“There were more than 20 doctors, I couldn’t even count all of them. I went in and they gave me an epidural and I was lekker awake,” she tells Daily Voice.
“The doctor who was in charge said it was his first time delivering four babies at once.”
During the operation, she waited anxiously for the first cries.
“They all came out sterk and were screaming as they came out and I was very relieved. Even the small girl we were worried about showed the doctors she is a fighter.
“I decided to have a hysterectomy after the C-section because I imagine if I get pregnant again, and it’s another four babies,” she jokes.
Doting dad Melvyn Loots, 35, says he is in awe of his wife’s strength and can’t wait to meet their babies.
“Due to Covid I am not able to see the babies but my hartjie brand om hulle te sien,” he says.
They have also already chosen names – their son has been named Cole Alwin while the girls are Chloe Bronwyn, Cleo Marth and Claire Cissirine.
“The second names all belong to the oumas and oupas of the children and my cousin Bronwyn Ruiters who has been supporting us all this time,” explains Berenice.
But the unemployed couple now face a struggle as Berenice has to visit the hospital each day to supply breastmilk.
“It costs me R60 a day just to get the milk there and we don’t have taxi fare.
“So we just need help to get the milk to them,” the mom says.
Meanwhile, plans for a mass baby shower for Berenice, arranged by a local car club, are on track on Sunday between noon and 3pm at Westgate Mall.
To assist the couple in any way, call Clinton on 066 227 5873.
monique.duval@inl.co.za