After a Harrowing Water Rescue, Baby Is Delivered on Mother’s Birthday

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by Christine Hauser

February 13, 2026

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Shedly Apollon, a 29-year-old makeup artist, experienced an extraordinary and harrowing day when she was just 33 weeks pregnant. While driving to a prenatal massage on her birthday, Feb. 6, 2026, she suddenly felt faint and her car veered off Interstate 95 into a lake in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Fortunately, she was rescued by a tow truck driver and a logger who rushed to her aid. Despite the terrifying incident, Shedly safely delivered her baby, Ivory Atara Sully, later that day—on her birthday—a moment she described as a life-changing miracle. The story began when Apollon’s fiancé, Woodly Sully, a firefighter, arranged the massage as a birthday gift. On the morning of Feb. 6, Shedly set out for the appointment, feeling well enough to enjoy the treat. However, just over an hour into her trip, she started to feel faint and pulled over. When she attempted to re-enter the highway, she lost control of her car and crashed into a lake in Martin County.โชคช่วย intervened when Daniel Hearn, a tow truck driver, spotted her submerged vehicle and sprang into action, joining forces with a logger named James Mayfield to rescue her. Apollon was airlifted to a hospital, where doctors induced labor. Miraculously, she gave birth to Ivory later that evening. The couple, who had planned for the baby’s due date in early March, welcomed their daughter nearly two months earlier than expected. Shedly shared, “It’s now our birthday,” reflecting on how the day marked both her rescue and the arrival of their child. This heartwarming tale combines elements of emergency response, unexpected childbirth, and sheer luck. It highlights the bravery of the rescuers and the resilience of Apollon, who faced danger while carrying her unborn child. The story also underscores the importance of preparedness and the unexpected ways life can change in moments of crisis. For readers interested in news with a human touch, this account offers a blend of drama, hope, and inspiration.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/13/2026