Send us Fan Mail

What do you do when the Fort Worth Zoo calls and asks an OBGYN to help save a pregnant gorilla? You show up, of course!

In this unforgettable episode, Dr. Jamie Erwin shares the remarkable story of being called to perform an emergency C-section on a critically ill gorilla with severe preeclampsia. What followed was a behind-the-scenes medical collaboration between veterinarians, physicians, and zoo staff to save both mother and baby.

From secret phone calls while on vacation…
to assembling a medical team…
to riding in a van with an anesthetized gorilla…

This story is equal parts medicine, wonder, and faith in unexpected callings.

Dr. Erwin reflects on what this extraordinary experience taught her about courage, teamwork, and staying faithful to the work in front of you—even when you never know where it might lead.

And yes… there’s even a baby gorilla named Jameela.

In This Episode We Discuss

• How a practicing OBGYN became the zoo’s primate consultant
• Why gorillas can develop pregnancy complications similar to humans
• The signs of severe preeclampsia in both humans and primates
• How an emergency C-section was performed inside the zoo hospital
• What it’s like to deliver a baby gorilla
• The emotional moment when the baby was named
• Why unexpected doors open when we remain faithful to our calling

Key Takeaway

Sometimes the most extraordinary opportunities arrive when we are simply doing the work we’ve been called to do. Faithfulness in the ordinary can open doors to the unimaginable.

Connect With Us

If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations.

Follow along for more conversations at the intersection of science, mental health, and faith.

Podcast Mission

A Journey to Whole Woman Health exists to educate, empower, and encourage women in every season of life through conversations rooted in science, mental health, and faith.

Support the show