Special delivery for MP Kate Ellis and husband David Penberthy
ADELAIDE MP Kate Ellis thrives on the demands of political life but cradling her son Samuel the first-time mother realises her most rewarding role has just begun.
ADELAIDE MP Kate Ellis thrives on the demands of political life but cradling her son Samuel the first-time mother realises her most rewarding role has just begun.
“My job has always been a really huge and important part of my life but I also know that this is actually the most important and hardest job I’ll ever have,” said the federal Labor frontbencher, at her Wayville home.
Ellis gave birth to Samuel Christopher Ellis Penberthy at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital at 8.30pm on April 8, three days early and weighing 8lb9 (3.89 kilos).
The natural delivery took approximately 10 hours.
“I don’t think anyone would describe labour as ‘fun’ but having him has been amazing,” Ellis, 37, said.
“I feel like tracking down each and every midwife, obstetrician, anaesthetist I came across and saying thank you. They were excellent.”
Proud father Advertiser/Sunday Mail columnist and FIVEaa breakfast presenter David Penberthy said he spent the labour feeling “useless” and attempting to give his wife moral support.
“It’s completely exhilarating, thrilling and incredibly exciting,” the 45-year-old said. “I think it’s a myth when people say that childbirth is one of the most beautiful things but I think it’s one of the most harrowing things.
“The beautiful bit is when the baby emerges healthy and happy but it’s bloody distressing seeing your partner going through that sort of pain.”
The adorable little fellow came in to the world with his mother’s green eyes.
“We were a bit surprised because we thought Dave would have dominant genes and I assumed he’d come out with black hair, darker and dark eyes,” Ellis said. “He’s got our dimples though. I think he’ll be a pretty laid back little dude.”
The arrival was an extra special surprise for Penberthy’s son Jim, 9, who shares his birthday with his new brother.
The family was out celebrating Jim’s birthday with a Chinese meal on Gouger St on Tuesday night before Ellis felt “a bit off” and they headed to hospital.
“The kids came to the hospital the next day and they were just so excited. My daughter Sophie (12) was like an instant mother hen,” said Penberthy, who has two children from a previous marriage.
Penberthy planned spending Saturday afternoon with Samuel watching his beloved Adelaide Crows take on Collingwood.
“I’m pretty sure he’ll be a bit of a sport nut - it’s hard not to be in this house,” he said.
Ellis also looked forward to experiencing motherhood alongside Labor colleague Amanda Rishworth who gave birth to son Percy last month.
“Amanda and I have known each other for almost 20 years so it’s nice that we get to go through this together and share some advice and tips. I can’t wait for little Percy to meet little Sam.”