September 29, 2024 – In a remarkable display of resilience and adaptability, 73 newborns took their first breath in the protected underground hospital of Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel over the span of only one week.

In response to rising tensions on the northern border, Rambam proactively relocated its Doron Feingold Delivery Rooms Unit to the expansive Fortified Underground Emergency Hospital facilities, the largest of their kind for such a purpose. Since the move on last Sunday, 73 babies have been born underground. Among the newborns, 15 were delivered via caesarean section, and the joyous arrivals included four sets of twins. This strategic move ensures that expectant mothers have access to the safest birthing environment amidst the current uncertainties.

Bar Salamov, a 32-year-old mother from Tirat Carmel, shared her extraordinary experience of welcoming her daughter in the underground facility. “It’s just crazy. I still can’t believe I gave birth in a parking lot,” said Salamov, expressing her gratitude, “Everything was just perfect. From the moment we arrived, every staff member was amazing. The birth went easily and quickly. I really didn’t notice where I was until my husband reminded me that we gave birth in the parking lot.”

Salamov, a mother to two sons, previously experienced childbirth under difficult circumstances during the COVID-19 pandemic. She humorously remarked on her adventures, “To be sure, we have a story for the grandkids, and free parking for life wouldn’t hurt either.”

Drawing from past experiences from the 2nd Lebanon War in 2006 where women gave birth under fire, Rambam has meticulously implemented lessons learned to enhance current operations. This insight contributed significantly to the establishment of today’s secure underground facility.

Michal Kranzler, the director of nursing in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Division at Rambam, emphasized, “The experience of the mother is paramount during these times. Unlike in 2006 where efforts were more medically-focused, our current approach prioritizes creating a comforting and protected atmosphere for the mother and newborn.”

The underground facility promotes a unique concept of care, ensuring “zero separation” between mother and newborn. This approach facilitates continuous support from medical professionals, enabling mothers to focus purely on the well-being of their newly expanded families.

Despite the challenges, Rambam remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering exemplary care and ensuring the safety of both mothers and their newborns. As Rambam adapts to these extraordinary circumstances, it stands as a beacon of hope and strength for the community.

In the photograph: Delivery Rooms Unit staff tending to newborns in Underground.

Photography: Rambam HCC