Pregnant Couple Walks to Hospital for Baby's Birth Amid Winter Storm

The expectant parents braved the elements to ensure the safe arrival of their newborn.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:47pm

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On January 25, 2026, a pregnant couple in Charlotte, North Carolina, Shelby and David Montes, decided to walk to the hospital for Shelby's scheduled induction rather than drive due to the dangerous conditions caused by Winter Storm Fern. The night before, the pair had stayed at a nearby hotel to be closer to the hospital, and on the morning of the 25th, they made the 10-minute walk to their appointment as snow was already falling.

Why it matters

The Montes' decision to walk to the hospital highlights the challenges expectant parents can face during extreme weather events and the lengths they will go to ensure the safe delivery of their child. Their story also serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness, especially for those with imminent medical needs.

The details

Faced with the threat of the winter storm, Shelby and David Montes opted to walk to the hospital rather than risk driving. They had previously parked their car at the hospital the night before and stayed at a nearby hotel to be closer to their destination. On the morning of the 25th, the couple set out on foot for the 10-minute walk to Shelby's induction appointment as snow began to fall.

  • On January 24, the couple stayed at a nearby hotel to be closer to the hospital.
  • On January 25, the couple walked to the hospital for Shelby's scheduled induction appointment as snow began to fall.

The players

Shelby Montes

A pregnant woman from Charlotte, North Carolina, who was scheduled for an induction at the hospital.

David Montes

Shelby's husband, who accompanied her on the walk to the hospital.

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What they’re saying

“We had no idea what was going to happen.”

— Shelby Montes

“Ultimately, we want to prioritize her safety and the safety of the baby. So, whatever we needed to do to be able to get to the hospital today is what we did.”

— David Montes

“We don't have a name just yet, so we're just like, 'Maybe this is what we're going to name him, Fern,' after the snow storm, or the ice storm of 2026, I should say. So, we'll see.”

— Shelby Montes

What’s next

The couple will welcome their newborn son in the coming days, and they may consider naming him after the winter storm that prompted their memorable walk to the hospital.

The takeaway

The Montes' story underscores the resilience and determination of expectant parents who will go to great lengths to ensure the safe arrival of their child, even in the face of extreme weather conditions. Their experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones.