Assunta de Rossi (right) with husband Jules Ledesma
Amid the pandemic, a miracle came Assunta de Rossi’s way. After 18 years of waiting, she and her husband, Jules Ledesma, are finally infanticipating
They resorted to in vitro fertilization in 2016 and were planning to try it again. So, it’s a “miracle baby,” indeed. As Carl Sandburg once said, “A baby is God’s opinion that life should go on.”
So, pregnancy in the time of coronavirus is truly a spark of hope.
I remember when I interviewed Assunta a few years ago, she said, “Jules and I are busy being stewards of our two haciendas in Negros. We plan to become philanthropists. We are too blessed to complain why we don’t have a baby yet, aside from Jules’ grown-up children, whom I love like my own. In God’s time, it will come.”
That “someday” for Assunta is here at long last. Call her “Hot Mama de Rosey” because she’s in full bloom, and so is her joy.
Here’s my chat with Assunta:
What scares and excites you about motherhood?
First-time jitters. I’m always wary if I’m doing the right thing. I’ve always loved babies, so I’m excited to have my own bundle of joy. It’s the best surprise of my life.
How’s your pregnancy so far?
During my first trimester, I would wake up in the middle of the night, feeling super hungry. It frustrated me because I couldn’t go anywhere due to the pandemic. I also didn’t want to wake anyone up to cook for me. All I could do was nibble whatever I could get my hands on and wait until sunrise.
My second trimester is very different. I don’t wake up in the middle of the night anymore, and I’m losing my appetite. I actually have to force-feed myself.
I still haven’t gained weight, and my bladder is more uncontrollable. Nausea, fatigue and dizziness are still there, and almost nothing smells and tastes good.
What do you love and hate about being pregnant?
My brain and heart love it. Unfortunately, my body hates it. It’s like someone or something just possessed me, and I can’t do anything about it (laughs). My mom assures me it’s all fine.
What is it in the parenting style of your mom that you want to follow?
Her being so hands-on. Although the thought of being assisted is nice, I would still like to do the rearing myself.
Do you and Jules want a baby boy or girl?
It doesn’t matter if it’s a boy or a girl. We haven’t thought of a name yet. We’re both traditional, so the name we will pick won’t be out of this world. Definitely not Corona or Covid, like some babies who were born recently.
How is Jules making your pregnancy easier?
He’s been very supportive, although in the beginning, he felt like he was also “naglilihi.” I was constantly complaining about how horrible I felt, and he felt helpless and was so worried for me. He would eat with me when I felt hungry, but he was the one who
gained so much weight, so he’s dieting now.
He talks to the baby and plays classical music. He’s already thinking of what to buy for me, and I said no. My health and the baby’s health are my primary concern now. I told him to give me my presents after I deliver (laughs).
How do your stepkids feel about their coming baby brother/sister?
Cristina and Carlos are so excited. If they can love our pet dogs, what more a human being? And it’s their sibling. They would absolutely love to have a baby in the house.
How are you handling the challenge of being pregnant in the time of COVID-19?
I haven’t had a scan in over two months. I hate feeling like a prisoner, and I’m scared it might be affecting my mental health. I can only hope things will get better. The world just seemed to stop.
I try to be more appreciative of the fact that almost no one bugs me.
What are your thoughts about disciplining and spoiling your child ?
To be honest, I haven’t gotten there yet. It’s different when it’s already your own. For sure, I won’t be a monster mom. But Jules and I were able to raise two good children. They’re definitely the kind of people my baby should look up to.
How will you and Jules not let parenthood get in the way of your being husband and wife?
Even if it was unexpected, we gladly welcome the change. We’ve been together for 18 years, so it’s about time. My prayer is for this pandemic to be over soon. I miss my family so much. I want us to be complete when the baby arrives.