Corio mum Courtney Bottrell gives birth six weeks early on Christmas

New Corio mum Courtney Bottrell was due to give birth in February but was surprised with an early Christmas present.

David Ross and Courtney Bottrell with their newborn Harrison, who was born six weeks premature on Christmas Day. Picture: Brad Fleet

A new mum from Corio was blessed with an early present on Christmas Day, giving birth to her son Harrison six weeks premature.

Courtney Bottrell, 25, recalled the “crazy” experience of her waters breaking five days before Christmas, despite her due date being early February.

“I spent three nights in hospital, came home for two nights, and then I went into labour on Christmas Day and he was here pretty quickly,” she said.

“It was scary, especially because we had nothing planned or organised.”

Ms Bottrell’s “Christmas miracle” only arrived home last week, after spending the festive season in the special care unit at Geelong hospital.

“It’s definitely a relief to be home,” Ms Bottrell said.

“The nursery was amazing, which helped a lot.”

Five generations Londa Smith, Courtney Bottrell, Harrison Bottrell, Ann Skinner and Lila Skinner. Photo: Supplied.

Harrison had only met one of his grandmothers until a recent catch-up with all five generations of Ms Bottrell’s family.

“My great grandmother (was) very excited to meet him,” Ms Bottrell said.

“She’s 94, so it’s very special.”

Ann Skinner, 94, with great-great-grandson Harrison Bottrell. Photo: Supplied.

Ms Bottrell said Harrison had been progressing by leaps and bounds since being home.

“He’s doing really well … the doctors and nurses were shocked with how strong he actually was,” she said.

Originally published as Corio mum Courtney Bottrell gives birth six weeks early on Christmas