Additional Coverage:
- Bill Gates went to the office when Melinda French Gates was in the hospital before giving birth. She enjoyed the solo time. (businessinsider.com)
Melinda French Gates recently offered a glimpse into her personal life in her memoir, “The Next Day,” sharing details about the birth of her first child, Jennifer. She recounts a unique beginning to her labor experience: while awaiting active labor, Bill Gates returned to work as part of a pre-arranged plan.
French Gates explains this decision as a practical compromise, noting that early labor can be lengthy, and there wasn’t much for her then-husband to do at the hospital. She described herself as “cheerfully alone,” occupying her time reading and reflecting. Meanwhile, Bill Gates’ assistant remained on standby, ready to summon him at a moment’s notice.
Upon reaching active labor, French Gates called her husband, who quickly joined her at Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue, Washington. He arrived to witness a 14-and-a-half-hour labor, which French Gates described as “really hard” due to complications with the baby’s positioning. She also chose to forgo pain medication, preferring to fully experience the process.
Despite the challenges, French Gates describes an immediate and profound connection with her newborn daughter, Jennifer. The birth marked the start of a new chapter in her life, a moment she remembers with fondness and love.