Woman who helped deliver baby on CT train recalls 'amazing' moment

CAPE TOWN - On Wednesday afternoon, a train traveling to Claremont station received an unexpected, extra passenger.

A pregnant woman’s water broke whilst she was seated on the train.

Four women, who are part of the cleaning staff from Herschel Girls' School, assisted in the delivery of a healthy baby girl.

Johanna Keever said she couldn't understand why nobody helped the lady sooner, and said that she was glad she could help the young mother.

"But, you know, the saddest part of all this happening was when no one wanted to help that lady who was lying there. It was the saddest part.

"Everybody just moved away, and I could see her husband, he didn't know what to do but I was calm, and she was calm, and Grace is the baby’s name."

Keever said that being able to assist in bringing life into the world was unforgettable and that when she was put into the position of midwife, her natural instincts kicked in.

"It was so amazing to keep this bundle of joy, a baby girl, in my hands and her mouth was open. She was screaming and I took the blanket, and I wrapped her, and I put her down on her mommy and afterwards, I just thought I was so numb in my knees. I stood up there, I walked out of the train, I got out at the station, and I just fell on my knees, and I started crying."

Johanna said that even though she has no prior knowledge of how to deliver a baby, her faith is what kept her calm and grounded.